Fort District

Overview

The Fort district is the historic commercial heart of Mumbai, containing the densest concentration of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco heritage buildings anywhere in India. The area encompasses the Oval Maidan, Flora Fountain, Horniman Circle, and the grand edifices of Mumbai's colonial-era institutions.

Highlights

• Victorian Gothic Ensemble: The High Court, University of Mumbai, Rajabai Clock Tower, and CST station form a stunning Gothic Revival streetscape.
• Art Deco Ensemble: The UNESCO-recognized collection along Marine Drive and the Oval's west side is the second largest Art Deco collection in the world after Miami.
• Oval Maidan: This vast open ground between the Gothic and Art Deco buildings hosts cricket matches against a dramatic architectural backdrop.

History

The 'Fort' refers to the walls of the original British Fort George, demolished in the 1860s to allow the city to expand. The grand buildings were constructed during the cotton boom of the 1860s–80s, funded by the immense wealth generated during the American Civil War when Mumbai became the world's cotton supplier.

Visitor Tips

• Heritage Walk: Join one of the guided heritage walks run by Mumbai Magic or the INTACH foundation for context.
• Business Hours: The area is most vibrant during weekday business hours.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.