Description:
Baroda was the princely state of the Maratha clan's Gaekwad rulers, and with artistic and futuristic vision of Sayajirao - III, today Baroda carries the name of city of palaces. Some of the beautiful palaces of India are present in Baroda.
Reputed as one of the most expensive buildings built in the 19th century, the elaborately designed Lakshmi Vilas Palace, presents a fine example of the zenith of the Maratha rule in Baroda. Built by Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad - III in 1890 as royal residence, it is a perfect example of excellence in Indo-Saracenic architectural style. Set in 720 acres of lush greenery, the palace is a marvelous work of eclectic architecture with a mix of Islamic, Rajput, Maratha, Bengali, Gujarati, Venetian and Gothic styles. It has a magnificent durbar hall or the meeting place, which has huge Venetian chandeliers and beautifully decorated domes and ceilings. It also contains a collection of old armour as well as bronze and marble sculptures.
The Nazarbaug palace is the oldest palace built by the Marathas in the city of Baroda. It is built in the old classic style by Malhar Rao Gaekwad in the late 19th century. Situated in the old walled city near Mandvi Clock Tower, this palace was used during royal ceremonial occasions. Although now in a dilapidated condition, this royal edifice is worth a visit.
A residence of the royal family till the Lakshmi Vilas palace was built, the Pratap Vilas Palace is a beautiful structure also built in the Indo-Saracenic style. It has a remarkable collection of old armoury and sculptures in bronze. The Palace has now been converted into the main training centre of the Indian Railways.
The Makarpura palace is a beautiful palace designed in the Italian style, some of its portion is occupied by its owners and the rest is now used as a training school by the Indian Air Force.
