Karachi is a city of many attractions, but one of its most iconic landmarks is the Clock Tower. This historic structure has been standing tall since the 19th century and has witnessed many notable changes and events in the city.
Graana.com has given a detailed overview of Clock Tower Karachi below, from its origin and architecture to its significance and current state.
Origin of Clock Tower Karachi
The Clock Tower Karachi also referred to as the Merewether Clock Tower or Merewether Tower, was erected in memory of Sir William Lacey Merewether, who served as the Commissioner of Sindh between 1867 and 1877. He was responsible for many development projects in Karachi, such as water supply, drainage systems, roads, bridges and public buildings.
The tower itself was built in 1900 by Seth Edulji Dinshaw, a prominent Parsi philanthropist and businessman. He donated the clock tower as a gesture of goodwill and civic pride. It was originally located at Bunder Road (now M.A Jinnah Road), near Empress Market, and was one of the most prominent features of the cityscape.
In 1962, road expansion and traffic congestion necessitated the dismantling of the structure, following which it was relocated to its present site at Ittehad Roundal. Since then, it has undergone several rounds of restoration and renovation, and currently serves as a symbol of the city’s rich heritage and culture.
Architecture of Clock Tower Karachi
James Strachan, who held the position of Municipal Engineer in Karachi at the time, designed the tower. Sir James Fergusson, the Governor of Bombay (now Mumbai), laid the foundation stone in 1884.
The construction of the tower, which was financed by public subscription, took four years and incurred a cost of Rs. 37,000. Lord Reay, the Governor of Bombay at the time, inaugurated the tower on January 1st, 1892.
Clock Tower Karachi is an example of Gothic Revival architecture, which was popular in Europe and America in the 19th century. The tower has a height of 102 feet (31 metres) and is made of buff-coloured Gizri stone. It has four clock faces on each side, which is illuminated at night.
The tower has a square base with four arched openings on each side. The base also has four corner turrets with spires. Above the base is an octagonal drum monument, and on top of the drum is a lantern with eight pinnacles and a dome. The dome supports a flagstaff with a weather vane.
The tower has many decorative features such as carved panels, floral motifs, gargoyles and finials. It also has inscriptions in English and Urdu on its walls. One of them reads:
Significance of Clock Tower Karachi
The Clock Tower is located at the intersection of M.A. Jinnah Road (formerly Bunder Road) and I. I Chundrigar Road (formerly McLeod Road). It is surrounded by other historic buildings such as Empress Market, Frere Hall, and Sindh High Court.
Clock tower serves as a landmark for navigation and orientation in the busy city centre. It is a symbol of Karachi’s history and identity. Clock tower also represents the colonial era when Karachi was part of British India and an important port city. It is also a popular tourist attraction that offers a glimpse into the past glory and present beauty of the city.
What You Can Find at Clock Tower Karachi
Clock Tower Karachi also features a restaurant, an art gallery and an event venue. The restaurant comprises of two floors: the Sea Gallery, located on the ground floor, offers air-conditioned buffet service with a sea view, while the first floor houses the Sky Gallery, which offers an open-air dining experience with live music and entertainment.
Moreover, The Lawn, an outdoor area at the restaurant, can be reserved for hosting private parties, weddings, corporate events, etc. It can accommodate up to 500 guests and has its own catering service.
Its interior design is inspired by colonial architecture as well as the art deco style. The walls are adorned with paintings by local artists. The furniture is elegant and comfortable, creating a cosy atmosphere for visitors. Clock Tower Karachi also offers a variety of cuisines and dishes; whether you are looking for Pakistani, continental, or Chinese food, you can easily find something to suit your taste buds here.
Some of their signature dishes include chicken karahi, mutton biryani, fish tikka, pasta alfredo, chicken Manchurian, and chocolate brownies. The buffet service is available for brunch (11 am – 3 pm), lunch (1 pm – 4 pm), hi-tea (4 pm – 7 pm), and dinner (7:30 pm – 11:30 pm).
Attractions Near Clock Tower Karachi
Here are some of the nearby popular tourist spots that you can visit:
Port Grand
Port Grand is a waterfront entertainment complex that features a variety of restaurants, shops, art galleries and cultural activities. You can enjoy the scenic views of the harbour and watch live performances by local artists. Port Grand is open from 5 pm to 12 am on weekdays and from 5 pm to 2 am on weekends.
PAF Museum
The PAF Museum showcases the history and achievements of the Pakistan Air Force. You can see various aircraft, weapons, uniforms and medals on display, as well as learn about the heroes and martyrs of the PAF. The museum also has a park with rides and games for children. It is open from 8:30 am to 10 pm every day except Monday.
Empress Market
Empress Market is a historic marketplace in Karachi that was built under the British Raj to honour Queen Victoria. It’s a huge building with a clock tower and four wings that house hundreds of stalls, selling everything from fruits and vegetables to spices and meat.
Frere Hall
During the British colonial era, they constructed a magnificent building called Frere Hall, which was originally intended to serve as a town hall for public events and ceremonies. They completed it in 1865 and named it after Sir Bartle Frere, who was a governor of Sindh and an advocate for Sindhi rights. Currently, it serves as a library and art gallery that exhibits the works of renowned Pakistani artists such as Sadequain.
The Bottom Line
Anyone interested in history and culture must visit the Clock Tower Karachi, as it is a prominent destination. Its unique architecture and rich history make it a cultural landmark worth exploring.
FAQs
Q: How tall is the Clock Tower in Karachi?
A: It stands at a height of 85 feet (26 metres).
Q: When was the Clock Tower built?
A: The British colonial government built the Clock Tower in 1905.
Q: Is the Clock Tower in Karachi open to visitors?
A: Yes, it is open to visitors. However, due to its age and historical significance, visitors are can not climb to the top of the tower.
Q: Can I take photographs at the Clock Tower in Karachi?
A: Yes, visitors can take photographs here.
Q: Is there any entry fee to visit the Clock Tower in Karachi?
A: No, there is no entry fee to visit it.
Q: What is the best time to visit the Clock Tower in Karachi?
A: The best time to visit the Clock Tower is in the evening.
Q: Is there any parking facility available near the Clock Tower in Karachi?
A: Yes, there are several parking facilities available here.
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