Calcutta High Court

Overview

The Calcutta High Court is the oldest High Court in India, established in 1862 during British rule. Its imposing Gothic-Revival building, modelled on the Cloth Hall of Ypres in Belgium, stands on the eastern bank of the Hooghly in BBD Bagh.

Highlights

• Gothic façade: A terracotta-red brick exterior with pointed arches and ornamental turrets.
• Heritage courtrooms: Original teak-panelled interiors that have hosted landmark cases for over 160 years.
• Surrounding legal quarter: The lanes around the court bustle with lawyers' chambers and bookstalls.

History

Established by the Indian High Courts Act of 1861, the court moved into its present building in 1872. The design by Walter Granville closely replicated the medieval Lakenhalle in Ypres, Belgium.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: The exterior can be appreciated freely; interior access requires permission from the court registrar.
• Tip 2: Combine with a walk through BBD Bagh's colonial precinct.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes (exterior).