Kolkata, West Bengal
Marble Palace is a 19th-century palace and mansion located at 46, Muktaram Babu Street in North Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali merchant and art collector, the palace is renowned for its neoclassical architecture and extensive use of marble, from which it derives its name. The palace features tall Corinthian pillars, ornamented verandas, and sloping roofs reminiscent of Chinese pavilions, creating a unique architectural blend. The palace houses an eclectic collection of Western sculptures, Victorian furniture, and paintings by European and Indian artists, including notable works by Peter Paul Rubens, making it one of Kolkata's most significant historical palaces and cultural landmarks, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of 19th-century Bengali aristocracy.
Marble Palace was built in 1835 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, a wealthy Bengali merchant and art collector who was part of the affluent Bengali aristocracy of the 19th century. Mullick was known for his passion for collecting art and artifacts from around the world, which is reflected in the extensive collection housed within the palace. The mansion was constructed during a period when Kolkata (then Calcutta) was the capital of British India and a center of cultural and artistic activity. The palace was designed to showcase the wealth and cultural sophistication of the Bengali elite, combining European architectural influences with traditional elements. Over the decades, the palace has remained in the Mullick family and continues to serve as a private residence while also being open to the public as a heritage site. Adjacent to the mansion is the Marble Palace Zoo, established in 1854 by Raja Rajendra Mullick, recognized as India's first zoo. The palace stands as a testament to the cultural sophistication and wealth of 19th-century Bengali merchants, who played a significant role in the social and cultural life of colonial Calcutta. Today, the Marble Palace remains one of Kolkata's most important historical palaces, preserving the legacy of a bygone era.
Neoclassical Architecture: The palace features neoclassical design elements with tall fluted Corinthian pillars and ornamented verandas
Marble Construction: Extensive use of marble throughout the structure, giving the palace its distinctive name
Chinese Pavilion Influence: Sloping roofs reminiscent of a Chinese pavilion, adding unique architectural character
Interior Decor: Interiors adorned with Victorian furniture, chandeliers, clocks, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors
Art Collection: Houses an eclectic collection of Western sculptures, Victorian furniture, and paintings by European and Indian artists, including notable works by Peter Paul Rubens such as "The Marriage of St. Catherine" and "The Martyrdom of St. Sebastian"
Garden Complex: The premises include a garden with lawns, a rock garden, and a lake
Marble Palace Zoo: A small zoo primarily serving as an aviary, established in 1854 and recognized as India's first zoo, located within the palace grounds
Private Residence: The palace remains a private residence of the Mullick family, with certain areas restricted during visits
Exploring the neoclassical architecture and marble construction
Viewing the extensive art collection including paintings by European masters like Peter Paul Rubens
Admiring the collection of Western sculptures and Victorian furniture
Appreciating the interior decor including chandeliers, clocks, and floor-to-ceiling mirrors
Strolling through the garden complex with lawns, rock garden, and lake
Visiting the Marble Palace Zoo and aviary, India's first zoo
Learning about 19th-century Bengali aristocracy and their lifestyle
Appreciating the historical significance and cultural heritage of the palace
Visiting Hours: Open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on all days except Mondays and Thursdays
Entry Fee: Free of charge
Entry Permit: Visitors are required to obtain a special permit from the West Bengal Tourism Information Bureau at least 24 hours prior to their visit
Photography: Strictly prohibited within the premises
Private Residence: The palace remains a private residence, and only certain sections are open to the public
Respectful Behavior: Visitors should maintain respectful behavior as it is a private residence and heritage site
Best Time to Visit: During visiting hours on days when the palace is open to the public
Location: 46, Muktaram Babu Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700007
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 18 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 3 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 5 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Metro Station: Girish Park Metro Station – short walk from the palace, or Mahatma Gandhi Road (MG Road) Metro Station – approx. 1 km
The palace is strategically located in the heart of North Kolkata, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Marble Palace is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The palace is located at Muktaram Babu Street in North Kolkata, which provides excellent connectivity to the city center and surrounding areas. The Girish Park Metro Station is a short walk away, and the Mahatma Gandhi Road (MG Road) Metro Station is approximately 1 km away, offering convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area, with buses available to Muktaram Babu Street. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services like Ola and Uber operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. The palace is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, with Sealdah being just 3 km away, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The palace's central location in North Kolkata makes it easily accessible and a popular destination for heritage enthusiasts and tourists exploring the historical areas of the city.