St. John's Church, Anglican church in Kolkata, India
St. John's Church is a large square neoclassical structure at the north-western corner of Raj Bhavan in Kolkata. Built of brick and stone, it has a 174-foot stone spire with a clock wound daily. Tall columns frame the building, and the entrance is through a portico. The floor is blue-grey marble from Gaur, and coloured glass windows light the interior.
The foundation stone was laid in 1784 by Warren Hastings, using stones from medieval Gour ruins transported along the river. This place of worship took shape during Kolkata's early years as a colonial settlement.
The church displays a Last Supper painting where local community members posed as the biblical figures. This artwork blends European religious tradition with Bengali identity in an unexpected way.
Visitors can reach the church through the BBD Bagh area with regular Sunday services. Major Christian holidays bring special gatherings with additional ceremonies.
The church grounds hold the tomb of Job Charnock, credited as Kolkata's founder. A relocated monument to the Black Hole stands here, a reminder of a tragic colonial incident.
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