The building was originally built to serve as a British colonial government rest house.
It was the site of the military coup that resulted in the death of the 7th President of Bangladesh.
The structure is designed in a signature colonial-era aesthetic typical of British administrative buildings in the Indian subcontinent.
The museum collection includes preserved artifacts from the early days of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.
The premises feature a garden area that retains original colonial-era landscape layouts.
The Zia Memorial Museum, housed within the historic Chittagong Circuit House, serves as the site where President Ziaur Rahman was assassinated on May 30, 1981. Originally constructed in 1913 during the British colonial era, the building transitioned from a government residence into a museum dedicated to the former president's life and legacy. The museum preserves the room where the assassination occurred, maintaining the historical context of the event. Exhibits feature a collection of personal belongings, photographs, and documents chronicling Ziaur Rahman’s political career and contributions. The architecture reflects early 20th-century colonial design, characterized by high ceilings and expansive verandas. It remains a significant site for understanding post-independence Bangladeshi political history.
The exterior front facade of the building, which showcases the full colonial architectural style.
Bring a valid form of identification, as security protocols for government-run historical sites can be strict.
Visit during the cooler months to comfortably explore the surrounding gardens.
Check local news for any commemorative anniversaries, as these may draw larger crowds.
Do not attempt to touch or move displays, as security is strictly enforced.
Closed on Mondays and government holidays.
Maintain a solemn demeanor; dress modestly out of respect for the site's history as a place of political tragedy.
