Ripon Building

Ripon Building in Park Town, Chennai, is the seat of the Greater Chennai Corporation and a prominent example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Completed in 1913 and named after Lord Ripon, the white-painted structure features Corinthian columns, arched verandahs and a 43-metre central clock tower with Westminster chimes. Located near Chennai Central Railway Station, it remains a functioning civic headquarters and an iconic heritage landmark in central Chennai.

Visitors can expect to view the striking white exterior of a functioning municipal headquarters from the public road and perimeter. The building presents a symmetrical Indo-Saracenic facade with arched corridors, Corinthian pillars and a central clock tower. The surroundings are busy urban streets near Chennai Central and Victoria Public Hall. Interior access is generally restricted as it houses government offices, so most visitors experience the architecture, clock tower and grounds from outside, with opportunities for exterior photography.

Foundation stone laid by Lord Minto, Viceroy of India, on 11 December 1909 and completed in 1913. Designed by G.S.T. Harris in Indo-Saracenic style and built by Loganatha Mudaliar. Named after Lord Ripon, Viceroy of India (1880-1884) and father of local self-government. Has housed the Madras (now Greater Chennai) Municipal Corporation since 1913 and is considered one of the finest examples of colonial civic architecture in Chennai.

Serves as the iconic symbol of civic administration in Chennai and a landmark of the city's colonial heritage. Its distinctive white facade and clock tower make it a recognizable cultural landmark and a focal point for heritage walks in Park Town and the historic George Town area.