Previously known as Ochterlony Monument, the Minar, 78- metres high, stands on the Maidan facing Chowringhee. This was built in honour of Sir David Ochterlony who won the Nepal war (1814-16). A report on the construction says, "The upper part of the column is taken from Syria: to this is added a base which is pure Egyptian.” Permission to climb to its top can be had from the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Police Headquarters, Lal Bazar. This column was erected in 1828 to commemorate the English victory in the Nepali War of 1814. The style is a mixture of Syrian, Egyptian and Turkish architecture. In 1968 it was renamed Shahid Minar (Column of the Martyrs) in memory of Indian independence fighters. Visitors can climb the 218 steps leading up to the summit. The square that surrounds the column is a common gathering place for demonstrations or political rallies.