ghazi52
THINK TANK: CONSULTANT
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St. Mary Magdalene Church, Lahore Cantt was built in 1856. This church is located in the middle of Mian Mir Cantt, Lahore. It was the first garrison church designed by Major G. N. Sharp, a military officer of the Engineer Battalion of the Bengal Regiment.
When the East India Company took control of Lahore, the British authorities ordered that a church be built here to express their devotion to Jesus Christ. Initially, a temporary wooden church was built, called "Mian Mir Church", but this church was destroyed by fire during a clash between the Sikhs and the British army. After this, the British authorities instructed Major G. N. Sharp to immediately build a strong and durable church. This church was named after St. Mary.
The construction of St. Mary Magdalene Church was completed in January 1856, while it was formally inaugurated on 23 March 1857. Its construction cost Rs. 90,000 which was provided by the British Government. The exterior of the church was plastered with lime, which added to its sanctity. Gothic style roofs and arches, design of the porches, strong wooden roofs (Scissor Roofs) and stained glass windows are the prominent features of this church.
Gargoyles were also recorded in this church during the research survey. These are animal-shaped sculptures that protrude from the roof and are a special feature of the Gothic style of architecture. Gargoyles were built for three reasons:
To beautify the church.
As a channel for the flow of water from the roof.
As a symbol of evil and demonic faces.
Major G. N. Sharp was then posted as the Executive Engineer in Lahore and completed this church with great effort and dedication. He was considered a man of high moral character and a sincere Christian.
Reference photo: Muhammad Rizwan Khan, Photo
