Flora Fountain is one of Mumbai's major tourist attractions and is named after a Roman Goddess.
Flora Fountain, also known as 'Hutatma Chowk' since 1960, is declared as one of India's Heritage structures. Built in 1864, this tourist spot houses India's prestigious fountain, located in the city of Mumbai. The name 'Flora' is derived from the name of the Roman Goddess of Flowers. The Flora Fountain was constructed by the Agri-Horticultural society of Western India. The total construction expense amounted to 47,000 Rupees and Cursetjee Fardoonjee Parekh donated Rs. 20,000 for its construction. The square wall within which the monument is erected is called as Hutatma Chowk. This place is also a major hub for commercial activities. Many institutes, such as the famous Bombay University, Bombay Stock Exchange and Gateway of India border the Flora fountain, in addition to other interesting places. Apart from sight-seeing, one can also spend time shopping for local delights in this place. The fountain is illumined at night and offers the most exquisite view to tourists.
History
The Flora Fountain was initially named after the Governor of Bombay, Sir Bartle Frere, but just before the fountain's inauguration in 1864, the name 'Flora' was bestowed on it. The Flora Fountain is erected in the same place where the original Churchgate of Bombay Fort once stood. The fountain was later known as 'Martyr's Square' of 'Hutatma Chowk' in 1960, to honor the 105 members of the 'Samyuktha Maharashtra Samiti', who lost their lives while fighting for a separate Maharashtrian state.
Architectural Layout
The structure of the fountain was designed by R. Norman Shaw. The Flora Fountain is sculpted from Portland stone and is coated with white oil paint. James Forsythe, an engineer, was the one sculpted this monument. A magnificent statue of the Roman Goddess is installed at the top of the structure, which makes the fountain edifice even more beautiful.
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