Little Europe in Bengal Heritage Day Tour
Take an exciting tour down the Kolkata Chronicles: A Tapestry of Colonial Legacies in our signature ‘Little Europe in Bengal Tour’.
Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, is a city that bears witness to a rich tapestry of colonial histories. The Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, and French each left an indelible mark on the cityscape, contributing to its unique cultural amalgamation. This blog aims to unravel the threads of Kolkata's colonial past, exploring the diverse influences that shaped the city into the vibrant metropolis it is today.
The story of Kolkata's colonial history begins with the Portuguese in the early 16th century. The Portuguese traders were among the first Europeans to arrive on the shores of Bengal, establishing a settlement near the Hooghly River. Their primary focus was on trade, and they played a crucial role in the spice and silk trade routes. However, the Portuguese presence in Kolkata was relatively short-lived, as they were gradually overshadowed by other European powers.
The Dutch East India Company, seeking to expand its trade empire, established a fortified trading post in the region in the late 16th century. Chinsurah, located upstream along the Hooghly River, became a significant Dutch settlement. The Dutch were instrumental in introducing European-style urban planning, building canals, and influencing local architecture. Their legacy is still visible in the Dutch Cemetery in Chinsurah, a silent testimony to their once-thriving presence in the area.
In the early 17th century, the Danes joined the European race for supremacy in trade and established their own settlement in Serampore, a suburb of Kolkata. The Danish East India Company left an enduring legacy in the form of the iconic Serampore College, which continues to stand as a testament to their cultural and educational contributions. The Danes actively participated in trade and left an impact on the socio-economic fabric of the region.
The French East India Company made its mark on Kolkata with the establishment of Chandernagore in the 17th century. While the French settlement was relatively small compared to the British stronghold in Calcutta, it played a crucial role in the cultural and intellectual development of the region. Chandernagore's French architecture and the remnants of the French Cemetery reflect the sophisticated European lifestyle that once permeated the area.
While the Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, and French each had their share of influence, it was the British who ultimately shaped the destiny of Kolkata. In 1690, the British East India Company secured the rights to establish a trading post in the village of Sutanuti. Over time, this settlement, along with adjacent villages of Kalikata and Gobindapur, merged to form the nucleus of modern-day Kolkata.
The 18th century witnessed intense competition and conflicts between the British, French, and other European powers for control over trade routes and territories in Bengal. The Battle of Plassey in 1757 marked a turning point, establishing British supremacy in the region. Kolkata became the capital of British India, and the East India Company played a pivotal role in shaping the city's urban landscape. The iconic Fort William, Howrah Bridge, and the Victoria Memorial stand as enduring symbols of this era.
Kolkata's colonial history is not merely a tale of political dominance but also a narrative of cultural fusion. The European settlers brought with them a blend of architectural styles, culinary influences, and cultural practices that melded with the local Bengali traditions. Durga Puja, the grandest festival in Kolkata, showcases this amalgamation, with British-style pandals and traditional rituals coexisting harmoniously.
Kolkata, with its diverse colonial heritage, is a city that bears witness to the ebb and flow of history. The Portuguese, Dutch, Danish, French, and ultimately the British, all contributed to the city's evolution. The remnants of their presence, scattered across the city and its suburbs, serve as a reminder of a bygone era. Today, Kolkata stands as a testament to the resilience of a city that embraced the myriad influences of its colonial past and transformed them into a cultural mosaic that defines its unique identity.
Itinerary
8 AM - Departure from Kolkata (Behind Indian Museum)
10 AM - Scheduled Tour Covering Bandel, Chandanagor, Chinchura, Serampore.
2 PM - LUNCH AT A HERITAGE PLACE
3 PM - BOAT RIDE*
4 PM - TEA
5 PM - Certification Ceremony
8 PM - Back to Kolkata
TOUR PRICE INR 3500/- PLUS TAXES (KOLKATA TO KOLKATA)
Inclusive of Vehicle, Tea, Meal, Guide & entries to the scheduled places of interest.
Tour conducted by road with a govt certified guide.
For Booking Inquiry click on the link below
