Bombay High Court

The Bombay High Court, one of Mumbai’s most beautiful examples of Gothic revival architecture, was built from 1871 to 1878, with the first sitting in early 1879. On the top of the black stone building’s two octagonal towers, you’ll notice statues representing Justice and Mercy, but some of the most interesting sculptures are found within.

Local lore tells of a dispute between the English contractors responsible for the construction of the Bombay High Court and a Parsi subcontractor. The Parsi lost his lawsuit in court, and in revenge, sculpted a monkey with a bandage over one eye and holding unbalanced scales of justice. This sculptural depiction of Aesop’s fable can be found in the western corridor.

Today, the Bombay High Court remains one of the oldest and most distinguished high courts in India. If you’re interested in India’s judicial system, it’s possible to enter the building and sit in on a hearing if one happens to be going on. You’ll have to pass through security first, and cameras are not allowed inside.