About Madras High Court Heritage Building
The Madras High Court Heritage Building in George Town, Chennai, is a landmark Indo-Saracenic judicial complex on NSC Bose Road near Parry's Corner. Completed in 1892 after construction from 1888 to 1892, it is one of the world's largest judicial buildings and the second largest after the Courts of London. Noted for its red-brick domes, minarets, stained-glass, and painted ceilings, it remains a functioning High Court and a prominent heritage attraction in central Chennai.
Visitors guide
Visitors can view the exterior of the functioning High Court complex spread over about 11 acres, characterized by red-brick Indo-Saracenic architecture with domes, minarets, arches, stained-glass windows and ornate painted ceilings. The surroundings include the High Court campus near Chennai Harbour and Fort St. George. Interior access is restricted as it is a working court; visitors can explore outer corridors, courtyards and facades, and may join occasional organized heritage walks that explain architectural and historical features. Photography is generally limited to exterior areas.
Key highlights
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Outstanding Indo-Saracenic architecture designed by J.W. Brassington under Henry Irwin
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Completed in 1892 and considered the second largest judicial complex in the world after London
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Distinctive red-brick domes, minarets, arches and stained-glass work