La Martiniere College, Lucknow (must see)

La Martinière College is a historically rich landmark, originally built as “Constantia” building, the opulent residence of French adventurer Major‐General Claude Martin in the late 18th century. After Martin’s death in 1800, his will endowed the creation of the school, and in 1845 the boys’ school began operations, with the girls’ section following in 1869.

Today the campus combines architectural grandeur with educational heritage. The “Constantia” main building is widely considered one of the best‑preserved colonial structures in the city, blending French, Gothic, Georgian, Mughal, and Nawabi motifs into a uniquely whimsical aesthetic. Inside, you'll find the chapel with vivid yellow‑blue frescoes, a pipe organ from 1895, memorial tablets, and the founder’s tomb and vault, it also serves as Martin’s mausoleum.

La Martinière College is the only school in the world awarded a Royal Battle Honour for its part in the 1857 defence of the Lucknow Residency during the Indian Rebellion. The campus also hosts the Claude Martin Museum in the Palace Hall with six galleries displaying Martin’s life, alumni tributes, and the Battle Honour presented by King Edward.