Historical places of Chennai

The historic significance of Chennai city is a very well reflected in their ancient temples, churches, mosques forts and palaces, monuments etc. The city of Chennai is famous for the number of historical places and monuments spread over the whole of the state.

Kapaleeshwar Temple: This Temple of Chennai is one among the most visited temples in Tamil Nadu. Located in Kutchery Road of Mylapore in South Chennai, Kapaleeshwar Temple is considered as a fine example of Dravidian style of temple architecture.Kapaleeswara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, houses the shrines of Kapaleeswar (Shiva) and Karpagambal (Parvati). The gopuram of the temple is intricately carved and is about 37 metres high.

George Fort: This fort was built during the British era and  this 16th century fort was named and built in memory of the great evangelist and preacher St. George, said to one of the disciples of Lord Jesus. This fort also marks the birth of the modern city of Madras or now Chennai.

Valluvar Kottam: Dedicated and built in the memory of the famous Tamil Nadu poet and author, Thiruvalluvar, this beautiful chariot shaped monument is comparable to the one established in the Temple of Thiruvarur.

Thousand Lights mosque:  Built in 1820 officially, the architecture and minarets, verses from the Koran imprinted on the walls of the mosque are a true testament of Muslim culture and an important place of worship for Shia Muslims.

Freemasons Hall: Built in 1923 by the British rulers, this Hall is a true testament of colonial architecture and design. The sprawling building built in Greek style is equipped with bedrooms, dining room, living room, etc. showcases beautiful intricately carved designs.

Kamaraj Memorial House:  built in the memory of the first CM of Tamil Nadu; Kamaraj Memorial showcases relics and belongings of the life led by humble Kamaraj. Many of his possessions from a young age to adolescence are visible in the house and can be visited openly by any visitor.

War Memorials: The beauty and the heritage is well preserved in the war memorials- Rajiv Gandhi War Memorial, The War Memorial Hall and Victory War Memorial.

Wallajah Mosque:  This is also known as the Big Mosque, and its granite monument complex, built in 1795, is much visited for its architectural brilliance. The mosque complex also organizes several ceremonies held all round the year.

Senate House, Government Museum, MGR Memorial, Santhome Basilica, Theosophical Society of India, St. Mary’s Church, Little Mount Church, Mamalapuram, etc. are other historical places to visit in Chennai!