chandigarh, capitol complex

A view toward the Assembly from atop the Secretariat that begins to show the complexity of the Capitol Complex's landscape. The pavement lined in blue becomes a reflecting pool during the rainy season, and the punched holes to its right screen a series of small rooms that overlook the sunken parking area. The roof of this corridor is flush with the ground behind it and emerges as a bridge connecting to the Secretariat and to the Assembly's flank. The Assembly rises from the lower ground plane without pilotis but its main entrance is above, to the central enclosure. Its monumental curved canopy stands in front, detached from the building. In the distance, one can see the Tower of Shadows and the Monument to the Open Hand. Between the two, Le Corbusier rendered a major roadway invisible by depressing it below grade and bridging over.