Palace of Assembly, Legislative assembly building in Chandigarh, India.
The Palace of Assembly is a concrete structure with geometric forms, large overhanging roofs, and carefully arranged columns across all exterior surfaces. The building houses the legislative chambers and assembly halls with a clear spatial arrangement that reflects its function.
Le Corbusier designed this government building between 1951 and 1963 as part of creating a new capital for Punjab following India's partition. The project embodied an ambitious vision for urban planning that prioritized modern design principles.
The building marks a shift in how India expressed itself through architecture after independence, moving away from colonial forms toward a new language of government design. It became a symbol of the nation's fresh start and modern ambitions.
Visitors should contact the Chandigarh Tourism Department in advance to arrange guided tours through the legislative chambers and assembly halls. Reservations are required and it is wise to allow enough time to explore the full site.
The concrete surfaces of the building create distinct patterns of light and shadow throughout the day, changing its appearance as the sun moves across the sky. This constantly shifting visual effect was intentional to the designer's vision.
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