THE GATEWAY OF INDIA (LA PORTE DE L'INDIA)

Bombay was the main port for travelers arriving in India by ship. The Gateway to India, designed by architect Robert Wittet after the visit of King George V in 1911, was officially inaugurated in December 1924. This monumental arch of 26 meters high was built in basalt stone on a large esplanade of the port, in front of the famous Taj Mahal Palace hotel, which dates from 1903. Its architecture is similar to that of a classical triumphal arch, with elements derived from the Islamic styles of 16th century Gujarat. The last British troops to leave India passed under this gate on February 28, 1948, symbolizing India's independence.

The esplanade also has a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji, on his horse, with arms in hand. It was erected in 1961 in honor of this Maratha warrior who fought against the Mughal empire and who thus allowed the creation of Maharashtra. The Gate of India is a very popular monument for local and international tourists, so it is better to avoid visiting it on weekends and during school vacations. To approach it, it is necessary to undergo strict and mandatory searches: the site is carefully monitored and protected since the terrorist attacks of August 25, 2003 and those of November 2008. It is also through this port that we take the boats leading to the island of Elephanta to discover its fascinating rock caves.