Currency Building

কারেন্সি বিল্ডিং

An Italianate banking hall of 1833, rescued from demolition.

About Currency Building

Built in 1833 for the Agra Bank and later used by the government’s currency office, this three-storey Italianate building had its domes pulled down in the 1990s before conservationists stopped the demolition. The Archaeological Survey restored it, leaving the central hall open to the sky, and it has been used as an exhibition space.

Why visit

A handsome ruin turned gallery on the corner of the square.

What to see and do

The wrought-iron gate and Venetian windows
The open central courtyard
Exhibitions, when on

Plan your visit

Area: BBD Bagh (Dalhousie), Central Kolkata
Nearest landmark: BBD Bagh East
Best time: Afternoon. October to March is the most comfortable time of year.
Time needed: About 30 minutes
Cost: Usually under ₹100 a head
Entry: Open to the public with a ticket. An ASI building. Current exhibitions, hours and ticket are not currently verified.
Metro: Mahakaran (Green Line)
Walking: Little walking
Photography: Photography is fine with some care.

Nearby and related places

BBD Bagh & Lal Dighi: The tank and square at the centre of the colonial capital.
Metcalfe Hall: A colonnaded hall of the 1840s facing the river.
General Post Office: A domed post office on the site of the first Fort William.
St John’s Church: A 1787 church whose garden holds the tomb of Job Charnock.
St Andrew’s Church: The 1818 Scottish church with a tall white spire.
Old Mission Church: The oldest Protestant church in the city, founded in 1770.

Walks that include it

Colonial Kolkata Walk: Dalhousie Square, the capital of British India

More guides

Last checked on 2026-10-02. Each place was checked to exist and its position confirmed. Timings, closing days and ticket prices are shown only where known and can change: confirm before you travel.