Consider this: a grand cathedral rising amidst Kolkata’s vibrant chaos. That’s Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral. It stands as a testament to history and architectural brilliance.
Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral isn’t just a religious site. It is a landmark. Its story starts in the 19th century. Kolkata’s European community was growing rapidly. The existing St. John’s Church became too small. A new cathedral was needed to accommodate the increasing number of worshippers.
Bishop Daniel Wilson spearheaded the project. He acquired land and set up a committee. Major William Nairn Forbes designed the cathedral. He was inspired by Norwich Cathedral’s tower and spire. Construction began in 1839 and finished in 1847.
Queen Victoria even contributed to the consecration ceremony. She sent ten pieces of silver-gilt plate for Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral. The cathedral was built in Gothic Revival style. It included modern elements like an iron framework.
Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral could hold up to 1,000 people. It quickly became the largest church in Kolkata. It was also the first Anglican cathedral in Asia. Furthermore, it was the first new-built cathedral in the British Empire’s overseas territory.
Earthquakes caused significant damage over the years. The 1897 earthquake led to refurbishment. The 1934 earthquake caused the steeple tower to collapse. The tower was rebuilt after the 1934 earthquake. It was modeled after Canterbury Cathedral’s Bell Harry tower.
The architectural style is “Indo-Gothic”. This means Gothic style adapted to India’s climate. The cathedral features stained-glass windows and Florentine Renaissance frescoes. Sir Edward Burne-Jones designed the West Window.
The nave is long and wide. It has wooden pews and chairs. The central spire reaches 201 feet. The tower has five clocks.
Inside Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral, you will find many art forms and memorabilia. There is an episcopal throne. A reredos from 1879 shows scenes from St. Paul’s life. Sir Arthur Blomfield created these carvings.
Paintings of St. Paul’s life adorn the eastern wall. Blomfield painted them in 1886. There is also a font with a sculpture of Bishop Heber kneeling.
Bishop Wilson established a library. It is located over the western porch. He donated 8,000 books and manuscripts.
The Sir William Prentice Memorial Gate marks the entrance. It is a wrought iron gate. It is named after a long-time member of the congregation. A well-maintained garden surrounds Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral.
Bishop Daniel Wilson is buried in an underground chamber. A plaque from Queen Victoria is on display there. Sir John Paxton Norman also has a memorial. He was an assassinated Chief Justice.
Saint Paul’s Anglican Cathedral stands as a symbol of faith and resilience. It is a blend of architectural styles and historical significance. It is a must-see landmark in Kolkata.