Calcutta, India

Originally founded as trading post of the British East India Company, Calcutta (Kolkata) was the capital of British India from 1833-1912. Today, it is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. It is the second largest city in India and industrial center of eastern India.

Although the city suffered a period of economic stagnation after India gained its independence in 1947, it has returned to prominence. It is home to the Calcutta Stock Exchange, the second most important in India, and many major corporations. It is a major center of regional banking and IT (Information Technology) services.

Calcutta, known as "the City of Palaces," is rich in culture and history. The Indian Museum, which features exhibits on Indian natural history and Indian art, is the oldest museum in Asia.