Calcutta Town Hall image

Calcutta Town Hall

Tourist attraction Museum Heritage building

One of the Top rated Heritage buildings in Kolkata


Address

H89V+5X3, Esplanade Row W, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001, India

Contact

+91 33 2248 3085

Rating on Google Maps

4.50 (534 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Wednesday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Thursday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Friday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Saturday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Sunday: 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Monday: Closed
  • Tuesday: 10 AM to 5 PM

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: Hall (60) Town (50) Kolkata (47) building (25) hall (23) gatherings (18) Calcutta (17) built (17) heritage (17) history (16)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 DR VINEET N. 3 years ago on Google
    Calcutta Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. Entry Fee for Tuesday to Friday is Rs. 10 per person which goes up to Rs. 15 per person for Saturday, Sunday and other holidays. However for school children it is Rs. 5 per person.
    16 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Subhankar M. 2 months ago on Google • 351 reviews New
    The Kolkata Town Hall was built by the British architect Colonel John Garstin. The construction began on 1st December 1807 and was completed in the year 1814. The architecture is Palladian Neo-classical Doric in style. The 25 feet high ground floor has an intricate network of numerous small rooms and a central marble hall. There are a number of historic events which are associated with this Building. Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose showed his famous experiment on wireless communication at Town Hall before public in 1898. Many illustrious figures such as Amartya Sen and Gordimer delivered lectures here.The Kolkata Museum was added that now occupies the ground floor of the building. The first floor hall is now used for cultural functions, seminars, exhibitions, lectures etc.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gautam B. 6 years ago on Google
    Built in Roman Doric style, Kolkata Town Hall was built in 1813. Major General John Garstin was its architect and engineer. A sum of Rupees Seven Lacs was raised by a lottery to provide Europeans a place for social gatherings. Access to the upper storey was restricted and was subject to the approval of a committee set up for the purpose. In 1867 Town Hall came under the management of the municipal authority, the Justices of Peace for the improvement of the town of Kolkata (later on the Calcutta Corporation). In the 1870s, at the time of the Chief Justice Richard Couch, when the present building of the High Court was being built, the Town Hall was temporarily used for judicial purposes. In 1871, one of the Puisne Judges, John Paxton Norman was assassinated by a fanatic Muslim of the Wahabi sect, while coming down the steps of the Town Hall. This was a setback and a decision was made to renovate in 1897. In 1914 most of the statues were shifted to the newly built Victoria Memorial. By 1919 the interior of the Hall was remodelled to suit the needs of the Bengal Legislative Council. The President of the Council had his chamber in the Town Hall. Subsequently, the Legislative Council moved to its new building in 1931 and during World War II, the government temporarily opened a Rationing Office in the Hall. Post Independence, the Town Hall Building was largely neglected. Many offices found temporary accommodation in various parts of the Hall. Paintings and left over statues were shifted to Victoria memorial. Gradually this magnificent building with rich heritage was sunk into oblivion. In 1998 by timely intervention of the ASI and the Calcutta High Court this heritage building was saved from further damage and destruction. And was later renovated to its former glory, and is now used for public gatherings and functions. The Kolkata Museum : This was set up in the Town Hall in 1995 by a joint initiative of Kolkata Municipal Corporation and West Bengal Government. It depicts the History of the City of Kolkata, and the adjoining metropolis. It was made by the Kolkata Museum society, members of which included renowned historians, musicologists and administrators of this metropolis. Kolkata Museum is a story-telling media exhibit on the history of Kolkata.
    10 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bibek C. 1 year ago on Google • 35 reviews
    It's an amzaing place for the peoples who love to see our history. Calcutta Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. Entry Fee for Tuesday to Friday is Rs. 10 per person which goes up to Rs. 15 per person for Saturday, Sunday and other holidays. However for school children it is Rs. 5 per person.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Art T. 5 months ago on Google • 293 reviews
    We had a wonderful time here during our Delphic immersion where we had interactions with locals.

  • 5/5 Rupendra Mohan S. 8 months ago on Google • 206 reviews
    Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813. A place for social gatherings. The town hall is a very famous and important landmark of Kolkata. During the British Raj the town hall was the most important place for social gatherings in Calcutta and many important state functions of the British East India Company were held here. The hall has been witness to many historic proclamations and events during the 19th and 20th century. It was considered an elite place for public gatherings by the Europeans. Nowadays, many functions of the Government of West Bengal are held here. The town hall was featured on the sixth leg of The Amazing Race 18, when the teams had to compete in a tea-drinking "Roadblock".

  • 4/5 Pinaki B. 1 year ago on Google • 107 reviews
    Construction of the fine structure of ' Town Hall ' completed on 1814 . On August 15 , the ' Town Hall ' was opened to the public with an exhibition of paintings . It is just beside of Kolkata High Court , & worth seeing .
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Partha D. 10 months ago on Google • 65 reviews
    TOWN HALLin Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Major General Jhon Henry Garstin with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. The ceiling of the building are 30 feet high. Location B.B.D Bagh, Kolkata. One of the place to visit in Kolkata.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 LX N. 6 months ago on Google
    Calcutta Town Hall is a magnificent architectural marvel that transports visitors back in time to the colonial era. Its historical significance, architectural beauty, and role in promoting culture and intellectual pursuits in Kolkata make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. While there is room for further restoration, the Town Hall remains a testament to the city's enduring heritage and a captivating place to explore.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sandeep P. 4 years ago on Google
    Love this place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kunal B. 6 years ago on Google
    The imposing colonnaded cube of the former Town Hall Building dates from 1814...the funds for constructing this building was raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings... It now hosts Kolkata Panorama, an introduction to the city’s heritage through a lively collection of working models, videos and interactive exhibits. It’s interesting if you have an hour to spare, but as you must be accompanied by a guide it can be hard to ‘escape’ quickly...this is also a touristy spot of Kolkata... There is a huge library and a musuem inside the hall... Ticket price: ₹10 on weekdays... ₹15 on weekends...
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Alagiri s. 4 years ago on Google
    One of the oldest, finest and historical place in Kolkata. Must visit. Well maintained. There is a museum also. It's amazing.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shankhadeep N. 1 year ago on Google
    Town Hall is a very beautiful heritage building to visit. It is in the heart of Kolkata. People can visit the place to watch many traditional items of Bengal. If you have time then try to visit this place.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 3/5 Gautam H. 4 years ago on Google
    It's location is near High Court Calcutta. It was constructed by Maj. General John Garstin in 1813. Before independence it was used as the place for social gathering of the Europeans. After independence the West Bengal Public Service Commission and the Municipal Service Commission would use the heritage building. Now it is being used as Kolkata Museum. There is a library which is beneficial to research scholars. Here there are valuable books. At present the Government of West Bengal organize meetings here. Beloved visitors are requested before seeing it, kindly to enquire whether it is opened or not since now it is closed owing to renovation work continuing.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Bidhan S. 3 months ago on Google • 81 reviews New
    building of the Town Hall was made in Roman-Doric style in 1813. At first, the hall was placed under a committee, which allowed the public to use the hall under such terms and conditions as were fixed by the Government. The public could visit the ground floor hall to see statues and large size portrait paintings but they were not allowed indiscriminate access to the upper storey. Applications for the use of the upper storey were to be made to the committee. After the establishment of the University of Calcutta annual examinations of the university was used to be held here till the year 1872 after which she got her own building.

  • 5/5 Kosturii Sharbaree B. 6 months ago on Google • 34 reviews
    The place and the ambience is so good. Along with the outside, the inside architecture is just beautiful.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Simran M. 1 year ago on Google • 73 reviews
    I went there for the jugals fest but I was astonished to see the beauty of the place ! The place is so chic and classy with a vintage vibe to it , as a born and brought up in Kolkata I should’ve visited before but better late then never I guess because it was worth visiting.I have also posted a reel on jugals fest about the first literature festival on mishti in the whole world I was so glad to be there to listen to such bright minds describing it’s history , loved the mishti making process too hoping to visit town hall again

  • 4/5 Sudipta D. 6 years ago on Google
    Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Major General John Garstin (1756-1820) with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. At first, the hall was placed under a committee, which allowed the public to use the hall under such terms and conditions as were fixed by the Government. The public could visit the ground floor hall to see statues and large size portrait paintings but they were not allowed indiscriminate access to the upper storey. Applications for the use of the upper storey were to be made to the committee. In 1867, Town Hall came under the custody of the Calcutta Municipality (later the Kolkata Municipal Corporation). In 1897 the Town Hall was partly renovated. After independence in 1947, indiscriminate interference with the structure inevitably took its toll, but was stopped in 1998 by timely intervention. The town hall was featured on the 6th leg of The Amazing Race 18, when the teams had to compete in a tea-drinking roadblock.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Partha S M. 4 years ago on Google
    Newly renovated place for Hangouts and check out the old cinema posters and emotions of kolkata.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rik B. 6 years ago on Google
    Beautiful palace made by British...Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Boni M. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical and Beautiful place. Must visit it. The majestic Town Hall is an important heritage building of Kolkata. This majestic and historic structure stands witness to some historical gatherings that took place within its walls. The construction of this building was completed in 1814. It is a fine structure built in the Doric style of architecture with steps leading to a grand portico in front. The carriage entrance is at the back under a lofty covered portico. The building is two storied and was originally used for public meetings, receptions, balls, and concerts that generally took place on the upper floor, which is boarded with teak with a thirty feet high ceiling.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Raju S. 3 years ago on Google
    This place has been closed to visitors for the purpose of restoration and that too for the last four years approximately. Nobody knows when or whether it will open for public viewing. Rated on the basis of its historical importance and heritage. Hope to get inside the Town Hall soon.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Pranavesh M. 4 years ago on Google
    Amartya Sen was honoured here by the then Bengal Government. Also got a golden replica of Town Hall. But alas! The honourable man is biased and earned a since of disrespect towards him due to his recent immature comments and activities. The Hall remains as it is with all its glory.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Hridendu M. 3 years ago on Google
    Historical place, actually history is preserved very well here. A nominal amount of ticket can give you a lot of experience of historical importance.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ishita D. 4 years ago on Google
    it's a must visit place for all in kolkata.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 NEVERLOST M. 4 years ago on Google
    Probably one of the finest heritages of Kolkata!!!....

  • 5/5 Sultan Nazir H. 1 year ago on Google
    Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Major General John Henry Garstin with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings.

  • 5/5 Reetobrato R. 2 years ago on Google
    built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin (1756–1820) with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. It was considered an elite place for public gatherings by the Europeans. Nowadays, many functions of the Government of West Bengal are held here.

  • 3/5 SHYAM SUNDER S. 3 months ago on Google • 6 reviews New
    Very important points for Domicile certificate Who wants to make own domicile certificate and u belong from Kolkata district u most read all the points carefully Previous some month ago provided government services to make people Domicile certificate but still didn't working on domicile certificate here So if u want to make your own and others domicile certificate then don't come here and waste your time You should to go bye this location on GPO (GENERAL POST OFFICE) inside of writers Building at collector office and there are provided services to make domicile certificate and get froms and prepare all the documents attached with this post have a look in this attechment and get your domicile certificate in two steps submit your from and take police verification as per your local address then after one week again go to the collector office and collect your Domicile certificate. Visit there after 12 pm at noon. Thank You

  • 3/5 Subhasis C. 1 year ago on Google
    Though a landmark place in Kolkata, Town Hall, just behind Raj Bhavan on B.B.D Bag West has lost its grandeur and exclusivity except its age-old legacy and heritage value. I visited the place on a Sunday Morning being invited to a private event. But, got saddened to see the way KMC people are taking care of the whole property. The main auditorium on the first floor is still better, if not well-maintained. But the lavatories are pathetic. I entered and literally bounced back. It is being rented out for private events these days. But if you experience the washrooms, it's no better than a "Sulabh." Even some of the "Sulabhs" in Kolkata are better maintained than this. Pls wake up the authorities and look into it.

  • 5/5 Kanika D. 7 months ago on Google
    Colossal remnant of Colonial Raj and reminder of our glorious past. Must be preserved for years to come....

  • 5/5 Piyush g. 8 months ago on Google
    Very historical site should vist if you have interest in history and great experience got to learn more about our culture.

  • 5/5 Nandan K. 8 months ago on Google
    Represents history with great infrastructure and ambience. Can visit to pass time for 2 hours. Great things to watch

  • 5/5 Ganesh P. 8 months ago on Google
    Calcutta Hall is an iconic landmark in the heart of the city that holds significant historical and architectural value. It's a sight to behold, especially for architecture enthusiasts or history buffs.

  • 3/5 shailendra t. 1 year ago on Google
    Great to see the architecture.

  • 5/5 Bobby L. 8 months ago on Google
    Where elegance meets the society, that's Calcutta town hall is all about...Spacious, air-cooled, well ventilated and good seating capacity and perfect sound management are all the good features of this Hall..an asset to the city..

  • 5/5 Akhil A. 8 months ago on Google
    Calcutta Town Hall is a majestic architectural marvel that truly takes you back in time. As soon as you step foot inside, you're instantly transported to an era of grandeur and elegance. The intricate detailing of the facade and the impressive Corinthian columns leave a lasting impression. The interior is equally captivating, with its ornate chandeliers, splendid ballrooms, and regal decor. The knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of this iconic landmark. The well-maintained premises and lush gardens surrounding the hall add to its charm. Calcutta Town Hall is an absolute must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

  • 4/5 Sourav H. 10 months ago on Google
    It is a heritage house and has a lot of history wrapped up in one

  • 5/5 Nemai p. 1 year ago on Google
    Historical place...best place for history lovers

  • 3/5 Joy M. 3 years ago on Google
    Could not enter due to lock down

  • 5/5 prakash C. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place heritage and beautiful

  • 5/5 Chandrasekher S. 4 years ago on Google
    Currently under rennovations. Once complete it will be worth to visit by year end

  • 5/5 Jamuuddin s. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Jamirlusk (Original) Jamirlusk

  • 5/5 Banamali P. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Kolkata city is one of the historic home! The British-ruled 'House of India' House, now used as a museum, also has a banquet hall for meeting administrative officials or prominent people. (Original) কলকাতা শহরের অন্যতম ঐতিহাসিক বাড়ি! বৃটিশ শাসিত 'ভারতের' এসেম্বলি হাউস, বর্তমানে এটি একটি মিউজিয়াম হিসাবে ব্যবহৃত হয়, তা ছাড়া, প্রশাসনিক কর্মকর্তাদের বা বিশিষ্ট জনেদের মিটিং করার জন্য ব্যাঙ্কোয়েট হলও রয়েছে, এখানে।

  • 5/5 Goutam B. 4 years ago on Google
    Excellent

  • 5/5 bijoy b. 4 years ago on Google
    Lovely place.

  • 4/5 samiur b. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical place

  • 5/5 Rajesh D. 3 years ago on Google
    Historic place near assembly

  • 4/5 yaruque s. 4 years ago on Google
    The pantheon of Kolkata

  • 5/5 Bibhash S. 3 years ago on Google
    great

  • 4/5 Dibyayan C. 6 years ago on Google
    A heritage building of Kolkata. 30 ft tall huge white colored building.

  • 5/5 Dimple J. 3 years ago on Google
    Nice heritage building.

  • 5/5 APURBA G. 4 years ago on Google
    Home Random Nearby Log in Settings About Wikipedia Disclaimers Open main menu  Search Kolkata Town Hall Read in another language Download PDF Watch this page Edit Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin (1756–1820) with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings. Kolkata Town Hall Town Hall of Kolkata Wikimedia | © OpenStreetMap General informationArchitectural styleRoman DoricLocationKolkata, India Address4, Esplanade Row (West), Kolkata - 700001Completed1813OwnerKolkata Municipal CorporationDesign and constructionArchitectCol. John GarstinReferencesKolkata Town Hall History of the BuildingEdit  The Town Hall in the 1860s. 1813 to 1900Edit The building of the Town Hall was made in Roman-Doric style in 1813. At first, the hall was placed under a committee, which allowed the public to use the hall under such terms and conditions as were fixed by the Government. The public could visit the ground floor hall to see statues and large size portrait paintings but they were not allowed indiscriminate access to the upper storey. Applications for the use of the upper storey were to be made to the committee. In 1867 Town Hall came under the management of the municipal authority, the Justices of Peace for the improvement of the town of Kolkata(later on the Calcutta Corporation). In the 1870s, at the time of the Chief Justice Richard Couch, when the present building of the High Court was being built, the Town Hall was temporarily used for judicial purposes. In 1871, one of the Puisne Judges, Sir John Paxton Norman was assassinated by a fanatic Muslim of the Wahabi sect, while coming down the steps of the Town Hall. In the year of 1897 the Town Hall had been renovated at a cost of about Rs. 1.126 million. 1900 to 1947Edit In 1914 almost all the marble statues except the statue of Ramanath Tagore have been shifted to Victoria Memorial. After the introduction of the Dyarchy in 1919, the Town Hall was used as the council chamber of the Bengal Legislative Council. The interior of the Hall was remodeled to suit the needs of the Council. The President of the Council had his chamber in the Town Hall. Subsequently, the Legislative Council moved to its new building in 1931.[1] During the Second World War, the government temporarily opened a Rationing Office in the Hall. Post IndependenceEdit After Independence, the Town Hall Building was largely neglected, during the early days of independence, during the 'Socialist Era' of early independence and seems to have been steadily consigned to collective oblivion. It was converted into the Municipal Magistrate’s Office. Other branches of the Corporation were accommodated within its premises. The Municipal Service Commission and the West Bengal Public Service Commission also occupied parts of the building. In 1975, all marble busts along with some portrait paintings were shifted to the Victoria Memorial Hall except the busts of Greenlaw and Palmer. The rest numbers of portrait paintings had also been shifted to Central Municipal Office building leaving two portrait paintings of Ryan and Nott at Town Hall. Gradually this magnificent building with rich heritage was sunk into oblivion. In 1998 by timely intervention of the ASI and the Calcutta High Court this heritage building was saved from further damage and destruction. And was later renovated to its former glory, and is now used for public gatherings and functions.  Town Hall Town Hall LibraryEdit In 1999, Corporation purchased the entire collection of rare books and journals on Kolkata from the noted Kolkata expert P. T. Nair to form a reference library. In 2004, the library was formally opened by the then Minister of Library Services, Nimai Mal in a small function presided over by the then Mayor Subrata Mukherjee. In 2007, the entire reference library of the Corporation has been amalgamated with the Town Hall Library. Now the library possesses about 12,000 books and journals

  • 5/5 Ravina K. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical place, actually history is preserved very well here. A nominal amount of ticket can give you a lot of experience of historical importance.

  • 5/5 Rajkumar S. 4 years ago on Google
    Just aswam and heritage of our Kolkata now it maintain by ASI

  • 5/5 Niladri G. 3 years ago on Google
    History and heritage comes together

  • 4/5 Mahesh M. 5 years ago on Google
    Houses a museum which showcases the history of calcutta. Needs better maintenance

  • 4/5 SUDIP R. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice place

  • 4/5 SHREYA M. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful Place

  • 5/5 Md Shahid R. 4 years ago on Google
    beside highcourt

  • 3/5 pooja k. 4 years ago on Google
    Its in renovation

  • 5/5 oPo 4 years ago on Google
    Kolkata Town Hall in Roman Doric style, was built in 1813 by the architect and engineer Maj.-Gen. John Garstin (1756–1820) with a fund of 700,000 Rupees raised from a lottery to provide the Europeans with a place for social gatherings.(Collected from wikipedia)

  • 5/5 FAKE JACK L. 4 years ago on Google
    Oswasam place

  • 5/5 Kazi Basir A. 4 years ago on Google
    Very nice place

  • 5/5 Debobroto M. 4 years ago on Google
    Historical place for debate or reunion

  • 4/5 Tarasankar M. 4 years ago on Google
    Great

  • 5/5 Saswata S. 4 years ago on Google
    Very nice place. If you visit here then you can come know many facts related to Kolkata. We can know the full history of the City of Joy, Kolkata.

  • 5/5 sujoy kumar d. 4 years ago on Google
    A very important historical hall...

  • 3/5 Abhijit S. 4 years ago on Google
    Hall under repairing

  • 4/5 Arindam Kr M. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Calcutta Town Hall is a building of Roman Doric architecture built in 1813 by the architect and settler Major - General John Garten (1756-1820). The Kolkata town hall is surrounded by the Calcutta High Court, Assembly, Eden Gardens and Raj Bhavan, which is a witness to many history. (Original) কলকাতা টাউন হল ১৮১৩ সালে স্থপতি ও বাস্তুশিল্পী মেজর - জেনেরাল জন গারস্টিন (১৭৫৬ - ১৮২০) দ্বারা নির্মিত রোমান ডোরিক স্থাপত্যের একটি ভবন। কলকাতা টাউন হল চারিদিক দিয়ে কলকাতা হাইকোর্ট, বিধানসভা, ইডেন গার্ডেনস এবং রাজভবন দ্বারা বেষ্টিত, যেটা অনেক ইতিহাসের সাক্ষী।

  • 5/5 sk sehid a. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) eight (Original) osm

  • 5/5 Amit R. 3 years ago on Google
    Near assembly house kolkata


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Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible entrance
    • ✓️ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

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