This is one of the most important landmarks of the city and makes its way to the list of top historical attractions. Therefore, even if you're here for a layover at one of the Chennai airport hotels the likes of the Turyaa Chennai; and only got time for one attraction, visit the Fort St. George for you will not be disappointed. Located on the Beach Road along the shores of Marina Beach, the Fort St. George was built by the British India Company in 1644 in order to secure the South India's spice trade. Initially developed as a trading post, the Fort served as the place of origin of the modern Indian Army, later on.
Today, the magnificent white building houses the Tamil Nadu Government's administrative buildings as well as the legislative assembly. There are two sections of the fort that's of interest to tourists and these are the St. Mary's Church and the Fort Museum. The latter has an impressive collection of swords, cannon shots, uniforms of Army officers, medals, oil paintings, silverware and much more.