St. John's Church

Overview

St. John's Church is the oldest surviving church in Kolkata, consecrated in 1787. Built in the Georgian neoclassical style with a graceful spire, it served as the cathedral of Calcutta until 1847.

Highlights

• Warren Hastings' piano: The church houses a piano once owned by India's first Governor-General.
• Heritage graveyard: The churchyard contains the tombs of Job Charnock, traditionally credited as the city's founder, and Lady Canning.
• Last Supper painting: A Johann Zoffany oil painting hangs behind the altar.

History

Designed by Lieutenant James Agg of the Bengal Engineers, the church was built from funds raised by public lotteries. It was the venue for many early colonial-era civic ceremonies.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Ask the church caretaker to point out the Zoffany painting and historical tombs.
• Tip 2: The church is a peaceful retreat from the surrounding BBD Bagh traffic.
• Duration: 20–30 minutes.