An Exploration of George Town: The First Settlement of Madras

To the North of Fort was the Black Town which later became George Town, ostensibly in honour of George the Vth's accession as the Emperor of India. One of the first settlements of Madras, the streets of George Town have centuries-old history attached to them.

Join us on this captivating exercise as we explore and discover the pre-independence phase when stunning masterpieces were built to form the ‘European City.’ Understand the history and architecture behind some early British business enterprises in the area and regale in the stories that led to the establishment of large-scale, stately buildings in the area.

What Participants Say

Loved learning more about the history of buildings i ve passed on a day to day basis

Ashmitha our guide was so engaging. She made the history of each location like a conversation rather than a lecture.

I really liked the way things were explained and the pace of the walk. I was able to learn a lot of new things during the walk

Walk Details

Focus: History, Architecture
Research Duration: 2.5 months (and, ongoing!)

Walk Duration: 2 hours
Timings: 06:30 am – 08:30 am
Starting Point: Dare House
Ending Point: GT Court
Includes:

Colonial commercial establishments like:
- Dare House
- Shaw Wallace Building
Religious edifices such as:
- CSI Anderson Church
- St. Mary’s Co-Cathedral
Public buildings like:
- Metropolitan Magistrate Court
- General Post Office

If you're interested in a An Exploration of George Town: The First Settlement of Madras private heritage walk, click here.

* Private walks are subject to the availability of the walk leader. Please confirm the walk date and time at least 7-15 days before the start date of the walk. We require adequate time to process permissions and logistics and confirm the selected walk route.