Flora Fountain

An exquisite architectural gem in the heart of Mumbai’s traffic
Word to the wise: Visit at night for a beautiful view of the fountain all aglow.

Standing regally in the square Hutama Chowk, where five streets meet (otherwise known as the Piccadilly Circus of Mumbai), Flora Fountain is a popular landmark in Mumbai’s Fort neighborhood.
The fountain itself is modeled after the Roman goddess of spring, aptly named Flora, and was built in 1864 for the handsome cost of RS 47,000, which was quite expensive in those days. It was created at the behest of the governor at the time, Sir Bartle Frere, who pushed for civic improvement in the rapidly growing city. Although the statue was originally going to be named after him, the powers-that-be decided to name the fountain after the goddess it depicts. Carved out of Portland stone, she still looks quite good for her age, although a coat of white oil paint has slightly marred her appearance.