Capitol Complex: A UNESCO World Heritage Site in Chandigarh

October 11, 2023

It is one of Le Corbusier’s most massive architectural compositions of modern architecture, arising from unique geopolitical and cultural settings. Besides that, UNESCO has awarded it the rank of World Heritage. The capitol complex is purposefully located at the city’s geographic and topographic center, against the backdrop of the Shivalik Hills.

Major Attractions

• Three concrete buildings – The pillar of democracy facing each other
• The assembly, the secretariat
• The high court also houses the high court museum.

Monuments

The Open Hand Monument – It is the city’s ostentatious emblem, representing peace and harmony with the philosophy of open to give and open to receive.

The Tower of Shadows – The Tower of Shadows is a standout example of Le Corbusier’s preoccupation with the sun’s impact on man’s daily life. In fact, it reflects his interest in the architectural challenges presented by the complex climate of Chandigarh. Not to mention, the tower’s design by Le Corbusier addresses these issues in a unique and striking way.

Geometric Hill – A large earth tilled hill with concrete relief work on the lower half and grass sward on the top. However, the relief is in the form of Corbusier’s diagram of the daily balance of dark and lightness, which, by his means, rules man’s activity.

The Martyr’s Memorial – It is a memorial to the martyrs of the Punjab partition and consists of a square enclosure with one side extended into a ramp.

Note: For permission to visit the Capitol Complex, you must fill out a form on the ChandigarhTourism official website.

General Information

Address	Sector-1, Chandigarh (U.T.)
Guided Tours	10:00 a.m.; 12:00 noon; and 3:00 p.m.
Entry Fee	Free of charge (ID required)
Timings	The Capitol Complex is open every day. Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Inside the buildings) Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Exterior only)