View of The Flora Fountain In The 19th century, Bombay, 1880 Photo
This rare 1880 photograph captures the historic Flora Fountain in Bombay (now Mumbai) during the 19th century. The view is taken from the iconic Oriental Building, looking towards Esplanade Road (Mahatma Gandhi Road). This bustling intersection marks the meeting point of Hornby Road (D. N. Road) and Esplanade Road (M. G. Road). Making it one of the most prominent landmarks of colonial Bombay. The Flora Fountain, with its intricate design and strategic location, remains a symbol of Mumbai’s architectural and cultural heritage.
The haunting emptiness of this rare 19th-century photograph gives it a surreal look. A stark contrast to the bustling crowds and heavy traffic seen at the same location in modern-day Mumbai. In the foreground stands the Old Oriental Building, identified by its curved architecture. Originally constructed to house the Cathedral High School, the building was later acquired by the insurance company.
With the decline of external threats, Sir Bartle Frere, the then Governor of Bombay, ordered the demolition of the massive defensive walls of Fort George. This move freed up large tracts of land, allowing Frere to redesign Bombay into a modern European-style city.
In recognition of his contribution, the Bombay city council commissioned the construction of the iconic Flora Fountain. Originally named Frere Fountain, the monument gradually came to be known colloquially as Flora Fountain. The name was inspired by the striking statue of the Roman Goddess Flora that crowns the fountain. Today, Flora Fountain stands as one of Mumbai’s most celebrated landmarks, blending colonial history with architectural elegance. Click photo to enlarge.
Did you know — that this area in the photo marks the western ramparts of the now-vanished Fort, which was built by the East India Company in 1716.
From the collection – Vintage Raja Ravi Varma “Shivaji” Oleograph Print.
