Roman Catholic Cemetery Hessing's Tomb
A unique 'Red Taj' mausoleum in Agra's historic Roman Catholic cemetery, built by a devoted wife for her husband.
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Roman Catholic Cemetery Hessing's Tomb
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique 'Red Taj' mausoleum in Agra's historic Roman Catholic cemetery, built by a devoted wife for her husband.
"An intriguing pitstop with its flashy red sandstone construction in a style mimicking the nearby Taj Mahal. "
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow just 10-15 minutes to see this unique tomb; it's a brief but fascinating stop. :stopwatch:
🤫 Embrace the Serenity
This is a very calm and peaceful place, perfect for quiet contemplation. :pray:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Red Taj'
Hessing's Tomb
A striking red sandstone mausoleum, inspired by the Taj Mahal, built for Colonel John Hessing.
Roman Catholic Cemetery
Agra
Explore a historic cemetery with tombs dating back to the Mughal era, offering a peaceful, contemplative atmosphere.
Architectural Fusion
Hessing's Tomb
Admire the blend of Mughal and European architectural styles, a testament to India's pluralistic 'Ganga-Jamuna' tehzeeb.
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Planning Your Visit
A Quiet Corner of Agra
Quick Visit, Lasting Impression
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow just 10-15 minutes to see this unique tomb; it's a brief but fascinating stop. :stopwatch:
🤫 Embrace the Serenity
This is a very calm and peaceful place, perfect for quiet contemplation. :pray:
📸 Capture the 'Red Taj'
The red sandstone structure offers unique photo opportunities, especially in good light. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore the Cemetery
Wander through the historic Roman Catholic cemetery for a glimpse into Agra's past. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Quick Visit Recommended
Allow just 10-15 minutes to see this unique tomb; it's a brief but fascinating stop. :stopwatch:
🤫 Embrace the Serenity
This is a very calm and peaceful place, perfect for quiet contemplation. :pray:
📸 Capture the 'Red Taj'
The red sandstone structure offers unique photo opportunities, especially in good light. :camerawithflash:
🚶♂️ Explore the Cemetery
Wander through the historic Roman Catholic cemetery for a glimpse into Agra's past. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Colonel John Hessing's Tomb a unique and peaceful 'Red Taj' inspired by Mughal architecture. Its historical significance, the touching story of its creation by a devoted wife, and its serene setting in the Roman Catholic cemetery are highly appreciated. While some note the building's age and the need for upkeep, its distinctiveness makes it a worthwhile, quick stop for history buffs and those seeking offbeat attractions in Agra.
"The Red Taj - Colonel John Hessing's Tomb
There are many a 'Taj' and there are many a love stories. In India's oldest Roman Catholic cemetery, a wife with limited means created a monument for her husband. About 211 years ago.
John Hessing came to Ceylon, as an adventurist. After a brief time as a soldier with the Dutch East India company, he joined the Nizams of Hyderabad. And then finally the Marathas. He fought the Anglo- Maratha war and later settled in Agra as the commandant of the famous Agra fort.
After his death in 1803, his wife, Lady Anne, built this exquisite perfection in red sandstone. On a square plan stands the crypt at the lowest level with the dummy tomb above. It is roofed by a dome and topped by a 'kalash'. There are four 'chabutaras' on the four corners rather than the minarets. Not just in form, but in spirit the tomb belongs to the pluralist 'Ganga-Jamuna' tehzeeb.
The tomb is placed in the Roman Catholic cemetery built during the reign of Emperor Akbar for the Armenian Christians. Many of the tombs rest here in Indianness. And this peace spreads serenity all around the place; to the extent that one sits here meditatively till the ASI guard comes and rouses you from the reverie. It is time to lock the gates."
Madhavi Shah
"This is a roman catholic cemetery in Agra acquired by ASI But still christian are allowed to be buried here.. recently i visited this place and it's full of masoleum of the Christian as early as 1803 which is the main tomb of Colonel hessing.. very calm place"
Silvester Robert
"If you find yourself exploring the sights of Agra, this oddity is worth a quick visit. John Hessing's Tomb, with its flashy red sandstone construction in a style mimicking the nearby Taj Mahal, makes for an intriguing pitstop.
This mausoleum was built in the early 1800s as an extravagant final resting place for the Dutch aristocrat John Hessing. He deliberately chose a location in eyeshot of the Taj to draw attention. While nowhere near as refined as the Taj Mahal, the tomb still impresses with its eccentricgrandiosity.
The building is showing its age. The grounds could use some sprucing up and restoration work on the structure itself. Still, it's an interesting testament to one man's outsized vanity. It's rare to find such an ostentatious display built simply to honor someone's legacy rather than any cultural or religious significance.
You'll only need 10-15 minutes to take in the curiosity of the site. Not a must-see, but worth budgeting a quick visit if you have an extra quarter hour to spare between Agra's big attractions. An odd monument for an odd historical figure."
Nitin Kumar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hessing's Tomb is located within the Roman Catholic Cemetery in Agra. You can reach it by auto-rickshaw or taxi from the city center. It's a bit off the main tourist path, so it's best to have your driver familiar with the location.
While not directly on a major bus route, you can take a local bus towards the general area and then a short auto-rickshaw ride. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are also readily available in Agra. :bus:
The tomb is a prominent structure within the cemetery. Look for the distinctive red sandstone mausoleum. Cemetery staff or locals can often point you in the right direction if needed. :compass:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Hessing's Tomb is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), and there might be a nominal entry fee. It's advisable to check current entry requirements before your visit. :ticket:
The opening hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to confirm the exact timings with the ASI or local authorities to avoid disappointment. :clock1:
No, Hessing's Tomb is a standalone site within the cemetery and typically does not require a combined ticket with other Agra attractions like the Taj Mahal or Agra Fort. :ticket:
While many historical sites in Agra are closed on Fridays, Hessing's Tomb, being within a cemetery and managed by ASI, is usually open. However, it's always wise to double-check. :calendar:
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed at Hessing's Tomb, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the site and any ongoing religious activities. Tripods might require special permission. :camerawithflash:
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography, casting a warm glow on the red sandstone and creating beautiful shadows. :sunrise:
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites in India, including Hessing's Tomb, to ensure safety and preserve the heritage. Always check local regulations before flying drones. :noentrysign:
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Colonel John Hessing was a Dutch adventurer who served with various Indian rulers. His wife, Lady Anne, built this tomb in his memory after his death in 1803, inspired by the Taj Mahal.
The tomb features a unique blend of Mughal architecture, evident in its dome and arches, with some European influences. It's often referred to as the 'Red Taj' due to its red sandstone construction and resemblance to the Taj Mahal.
The cemetery was established during Emperor Akbar's reign for Armenian Christians and later became a burial ground for European Christians in Agra, holding tombs dating back to the early 1800s.
It's called the 'Red Taj' because it's constructed from red sandstone and its design, particularly the dome and minaret-like corner structures, is reminiscent of the iconic Taj Mahal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: Keep the visit short and focus on the visual aspects. Ensure children are supervised and respectful of the cemetery grounds. It's best suited for families who appreciate historical curiosities and a moment of calm between more active sightseeing.
🚶♂️ Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Tip: Take your time to read any available information boards and absorb the serene atmosphere. Consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and a more contemplative experience.
📸 Photographers
Tip: Experiment with different angles to capture the tomb's grandeur and its setting within the cemetery. The contrast between the ornate tomb and the simpler gravestones can also make for compelling shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Story Behind the 'Red Taj'
The tomb's location within the historic Roman Catholic cemetery, established during Emperor Akbar's reign, adds another layer of historical significance. This cemetery itself houses tombs of Christians dating back to the early 1800s, many with distinctly Indian influences. The serenity of the place allows visitors to sit meditatively, often until the ASI guard signals closing time, offering a peaceful respite from the usual tourist hustle.
While it may not possess the refined grandeur of the Taj Mahal, Hessing's Tomb impresses with its eccentric magnificence and the touching story behind its creation. It's a testament to one man's legacy and a wife's enduring love, making it a worthwhile, albeit brief, visit for those exploring Agra's less-trodden paths.
Architectural Nuances and Inspiration
However, the tomb also incorporates unique elements that set it apart. Instead of traditional minarets, it features four 'chabutaras' (platforms) at the corners, adding a different aesthetic. The interior crypt houses the actual tomb, with a dummy tomb above, a common practice in mausoleum construction. The architectural details, including grand arch gateways and carved stone screens, showcase a blend of styles that reflect the era's cultural synthesis.
This architectural fusion is a key reason why Hessing's Tomb is considered an 'oddity' and a 'curiosity' by visitors. It represents a unique historical moment where European influences met and mingled with established Indian architectural traditions, creating a monument that is both familiar and distinct. It's a visual representation of the pluralistic spirit that characterized historical Agra.
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