Introduction

Built as a trading post in 1640, and later developed into garrison fortress, the St. George Fort was probably the first British establishment in India. An architectural marvel, the structure houses a museum, and the magnificent St. Mary’s Church. A must-visit for all history and architecture lovers!

In addition to a museum, the fort also houses the legislative seat of the Tamil Nadu Government, a war memorial, lighthouse, and flagstaff among other relics.

The ground on which the fort stands is bounded by River Coolum. The grant for the land was authorized by the deputy of the then-king of the Vijayanagar kingdom. Once the land had been bought, it was established as a permanent trading post, with the officials of the East India Company settling down here.

The fort took about 13 years to be completed - on St. George’s Day – after which it has been named. Within its ramparts was a well-developed town with streets, beautiful houses, office buildings and other architectural landmarks. The fort was taken over by the French in 1746, but after three years the British recaptured their domains. Following the French siege, the British enhanced the defense mechanisms of the fort.

The in-site St. Mary’s Church was built in 1680 as a bombproof structure by William Dixon and Edward Fowle - its walls believed to be five feet thick. A tour of the church reveals its treasures, which include an amazing copy of the Last Supper, silver plates and plaques, and a bible that is older than the church itself.

Another notable attraction at Fort St. George is the museum. Housed in one of the oldest surviving buildings in the fort, the museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and relics from the British era. Over 600 relics are exhibited here in 10 galleries across three floors. Exhibits include armaments, coins, uniforms of the British Army and the medals awarded to gallant soldiers, besides china, portraits and sketches among other antiques.

Guarding the ramparts are cannons that once belonged to Tipu Sultan. Atop the museum building is a 20th century lighthouse. Wellesley House and Clive House are the two most important residences that have survived the ravages of time.

Across the fort is the Madras High Court. Still functional, it is one of the first three courts to be established during the rule of Queen Victoria in the Presidency Towns by the Letters Patent of Her Majesty. A red-sandstone building with Indo-Sarconic architecture, the Chennai High Court is the world’s second largest judicial complex. Guided tours of this late-19th century building are organized by tour operators.

Special Attributes

The fort is regarded as the first British establishment, and houses one of the oldest Anglican churches in Asia.

Nuisance

Touts, Hawkers

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Cars, Buses, Auto-rickshaws, Metro trains

Enjoyed by

Backpackers especially history lovers

Exposure

You will be under the bare sun while exploring the fort’s ramparts.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Guided tours of the High Court are conducted regularly for a nominal fee of 10 INR.

Things Not Allowed

Still cameras with flash and all types of moving cameras are not allowed within the museum.

Tip

It is advisable to carry along your sunshades, sunblock cream and a bottle of drinking water.

Type of site

Place of Worship/Architectural landmark/Museum