Sahid Minar

building, Kolkata, India

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

The Shaheed Minar, formerly known as the Ochterlony Monument, is a prominent landmark in Kolkata, India. This tall column stands at 165 feet (50 meters) and features a unique blend of architectural styles: its base is Egyptian, the column is Syrian, and the cupola is in the Turkish style.1

The history of Kolkata, originally known as Kalikata, dates back to 1690 when it was established as a trading post by the English East India Company. The city's growth was significantly boosted in 1717 when the Mughal emperor granted the company trade freedom. The Shaheed Minar stands as a testament to the diverse influences that have shaped Kolkata's architecture and history.231

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Kolkata
Architecture
The beautiful column of the Shaheed Minar (Ochterlony Monument) is 165 feet (50 metres) high—its base is Egyptian, its column Syrian, and its cupola in the Turkish style. Victoria Memorial Hall represents an attempt to combine classical Western influence with Mughal architecture; the Nakhoda Mosque is modeled on the tomb…
Read More
The beautiful column of the Shaheed Minar (Ochterlony Monument) is 165 feet (50 metres) high—its base is Egyptian, its column Syrian, and its cupola in the Turkish style. Victoria Memorial Hall represents an attempt to combine classical Western influence with Mughal architecture; the Nakhoda Mosque is modeled on the tomb…
Read More