Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, also known as CST or formerly Victoria Terminus, is a magnificent railway station in Mumbai, the capital city of Maharashtra.
It is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in the late 19th century to commemorate the visit of King George V and Queen Mary to India in 1911 and also to mark the end of British rule in India in 1948.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Architecture
The station is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic Revival architecture, blended with themes from Indian traditional architecture. It was designed by the British architect Frederick William Stevens, who also designed other buildings in Mumbai such as the Prince of Wales Museum and the King Edward Memorial Hospital.
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The station is located on the waterfront of Apollo Bunder, overlooking the Arabian Sea. It covers an area of 2.85 hectares and has 18 platforms and 40 tracks. It is one of the busiest railway stations in India, serving more than three million commuters daily. The station is also a hub for intercity and suburban trains, connecting Mumbai with other parts of India.
Why is Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus famous?
The station is famous for its stunning stone dome, turrets, pointed arches, and eccentric ground plan. It has intricate carvings and latticework and is adorned with sculptures of animals, birds, flowers, and human figures.
The station also has inscriptions on both sides, one in English and one in Marathi. The central dome has a diameter of 48 feet and a height of 83 feet. The main entrance has a giant wooden door with iron spikes. The interior of the station has a grand staircase, stained glass windows, ornamental iron railings, and wood carvings.
The station is more than just a monument; it is a testimony to Mumbai’s past, present, and future. It is a place where you can experience the city’s diversity, vibrancy, and charm. A visit to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus will surely leave you with unforgettable memories and impressions.
