Semmozhi Poonga, also known as Semmozhi Park, is a beautifully landscaped botanical garden located in Chennai, near the Mount Road junction. Developed and maintained by the Horticulture Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu, this park opened to the public in November 2010. Notably, the then Chief Minister Dr. M. Karunanidhi inaugurated it, marking the establishment of Chennai’s first full-fledged botanical garden.
About Semmozhi Poonga
The government developed Semmozhi Poonga with significant investment to import and cultivate exotic plant species from across the world. As a result, the park now showcases more than 500 species of plants. Moreover, gardening enthusiasts can appreciate the systematic cataloguing of plants, as each species features a placard displaying its scientific name. Throughout the park, visitors can enjoy towering trees, shaded groves, lush vines, manicured lawns, and vibrant flowers such as orchids. During its development, the garden also received plants worth nearly ₹8,00,000 from China. Consequently, the diversity of flora greatly enhances the park’s visual appeal.
Unique Features of Semmozhi Park
One of the standout attractions is the vertical garden at the entrance plaza. This impressive structure, measuring 22 feet in length and 14 feet in height, includes an inbuilt irrigation and drainage system for easy maintenance. Therefore, it not only adds greenery but also improves the scenic charm of the entrance. Additionally, the butterfly garden near the cascade fountains along the Anna Flyover draws attention. Designed in the shape of a butterfly, this enclosed garden hosts flowering plants of over 30 species, creating a delightful habitat for butterflies.
Recreation and Visitor Experience
Semmozhi Poonga serves as an ideal destination for a relaxed family outing. The neatly laid walkways, chirping birds, and tranquil surroundings create a welcoming atmosphere. As a result, photographers and nature lovers find plenty of spots to capture memorable moments. The park also attracts morning walkers and joggers, while many visitors prefer an evening stroll to unwind after work, especially during sunset. Entry tickets remain affordable, with adults paying INR 15. However, visitors carrying professional cameras must pay an additional INR 25.
Facilities Inside the Park
Although outside food and drinks are not allowed, the park offers a small food court where visitors can eat or purchase refreshments. Meanwhile, children can enjoy a dedicated play area equipped with swings, slides, climbing structures, and a sandpit. Furthermore, the park features a small pond, fountains, and a rock garden with cascading water. At the heart of Semmozhi Poonga, an open-air amphitheatre hosts social and cultural events. Overall, the park provides a calm and refreshing environment, making it a must-visit urban oasis.
Semmozhi Poonga, Chennai – FAQ
Where is Semmozhi Poonga located in Chennai?
Semmozhi Poonga is located on Cathedral Road in Anna Salai, Chennai, near the Gemini Flyover and Thousand Lights area.
What is Semmozhi Poonga famous for?
Semmozhi Poonga is famous for its beautifully landscaped gardens, exotic plant species, themed sections, and peaceful walking paths in the heart of the city.
What are the entry fees for Semmozhi Poonga?
The entry fee is usually minimal and affordable for visitors. Charges may vary for adults, children, and camera usage.
What are the visiting hours of Semmozhi Poonga?
Semmozhi Poonga is generally open from morning around 10:00 AM to 7:30 PM and remains closed on Tuesdays. Timings may change on public holidays.
Is Semmozhi Poonga suitable for families and children?
Yes, Semmozhi Poonga is ideal for families, children, walkers, and nature lovers looking for a relaxing green space in central Chennai.
Tourist Attractions near Chennai
Amir Mahal is one of the most prominent heritage attractions in Chennai. Located in Royapettah, this historic palace holds immense cultural and architectural importance. The British East India Company originally constructed Amir Mahal in 1798 to serve as an administrative office. Later, the British architect Robert Chisholm redesigned the structure and transformed it into a royal palace.
In 1876, the Nawab of Arcot moved into Amir Mahal along with his family. Since then, the palace has remained the official residence of the Nawabs of Arcot, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited palaces in Tamil Nadu.
Royal Residence and Lifestyle
Unlike many royal residences, the lifestyle within Amir Mahal reflects simplicity blended with regal elegance. The Prince of Arcot and his family are known for their warmth and hospitality. As a result, Amir Mahal attracts not only tourists but also political leaders, Presidents of India, and several prominent personalities.
Consequently, Amir Mahal has earned a reputation as one of the most admired palaces in Tamil Nadu, both for its history and its living legacy.
Architecture of Amir Mahal
Amir Mahal showcases the distinctive Indo-Saracenic architectural style, characterized by grand arches, ornate facades, and elegant layouts. The palace reflects careful planning, innovative design, and fine craftsmanship. Since 1876, the Nawab’s family has preserved the architectural charm of the residence.
Present-Day Significance
Today, the Nawab’s successor, Mohammad Abdul Ali, along with his brothers and their families, continues to reside in Amir Mahal. The palace also features a mini cricket ground, which is currently undergoing renovation under government supervision.
With the abolition of the Nawabship, the primary royal residence shifted to Chepauk Palace near Marina Beach. Meanwhile, Kals Mahal, spread across 121 acres, now functions as offices of the Public Works Department.
Notable Visits and Tourist Appeal
Amir Mahal has hosted several distinguished visitors over the years. Notably, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first Prime Minister, visited the palace twice in 1955 and again in 1963. These visits further enhanced the palace’s national significance.
Today, visitors admire Amir Mahal for its world-class architecture, thoughtful layouts, colorful surroundings, and peaceful ambience. Therefore, it serves as an ideal destination to unwind and explore Chennai’s royal heritage. Visitors are encouraged to carry cameras to capture the palace’s timeless beauty and memorable moments.
Amir Mahal, Chennai – FAQ
Where is Amir Mahal located in Chennai?
Amir Mahal is located on Peters Road in Royapettah, Chennai. It is one of the prominent historical landmarks in the city.
Who resides in Amir Mahal?
Amir Mahal serves as the official residence of the Prince of Arcot, a descendant of the Nawabs of Arcot.
What is the historical significance of Amir Mahal?
Built in the 18th century and later renovated in the Indo-Saracenic architectural style, Amir Mahal reflects the legacy of the Arcot Nawab family in Chennai.
Is Amir Mahal open to the public?
Amir Mahal is a private residence and is generally not open to the public. Visitors may require prior permission for entry.
What architectural style does Amir Mahal feature?
The palace showcases Indo-Saracenic architecture, blending Mughal, Gothic, and Indian design elements.
Tourist Attractions near Chennai
Valluvar Kottam, located in the heart of Chennai, is a renowned historical monument dedicated to the legendary Tamil poet, philosopher, and saint Thiruvalluvar. He authored the timeless literary masterpiece Thirukkural more than 2,000 years ago. The Government of Tamil Nadu constructed this monument under the leadership of M. Karunanidhi, the former Chief Minister of the state. The construction of Valluvar Kottam serves as a fitting tribute to Thiruvalluvar and his invaluable contributions to Tamil literature and philosophy. Consequently, the monument has become one of Chennai’s most significant cultural landmarks and attracts visitors from across India and around the world. In the cultural life of the Tamil people, Thiruvalluvar continues to hold an enduring and respected place.
Architecture of Valluvar Kottam
The architectural design of Valluvar Kottam resembles a traditional South Indian temple chariot and rises to a height of about 39 metres. Inside this grand structure stands a massive stone statue of Saint Thiruvalluvar, symbolizing wisdom and moral virtue. Notably, the renowned South Indian architect V. Ganapati Chapatti designed the monument. He also designed the iconic Thiruvalluvar statue located at Kanyakumari, thereby linking two major landmarks dedicated to the saint.
Auditorium and Structural Features
The main auditorium of Valluvar Kottam can accommodate more than 4,000 people at a time. It functions as a modern cenotaph honoring Thiruvalluvar and represents the richness of Tamil culture and intellectual heritage. One of the most remarkable features of Valluvar Kottam is its pillar-less construction. Despite its massive scale, the structure stands firmly without the support of any internal pillars, showcasing exceptional engineering skill.
Thirukkural Inscriptions and Artistic Elements
All 1,330 verses of the Thirukkural are engraved on the granite pillars lining the corridors of the facade hall that surrounds the vast auditorium. Builders used nearly 3,000 granite stone blocks in the construction of this monumental complex.
Furthermore, the lion sculpture at the main entrance draws immediate attention with its intricate decorative patterns. Through this grand monument, the people of Tamil Nadu have expressed their deep admiration and gratitude for Thiruvalluvar’s unparalleled contribution to Tamil literature and moral philosophy.
Tourist Attractions near Chennai
The Theosophical Society is one of the most serene and popular attractions in the city of Chennai. Located in Besant Nagar near Elliot’s Beach along the Adyar River, this peaceful campus offers a refreshing escape from the city’s bustling environment. Founded in 1875 by Annie Besant, the society played a significant role in the revival and promotion of Hindu culture. Even today, it stands as a green oasis in the heart of Chennai, attracting visitors seeking calmness, spirituality, and natural beauty.
Campus and Spiritual Significance
The Theosophical Society campus features several shrines and residential buildings. Visitors can see statues of Madame Blavatsky and Colonel Henry Steel Olcott, the founders of the Theosophical movement. Moreover, the campus uniquely represents religious harmony, as it houses a Hindu Temple, Jain Temple, Christian Church, and a Buddhist Temple within its premises. This inclusive environment reflects the society’s philosophy of universal brotherhood.
Library and Cultural Heritage
Within the campus, the library preserves a valuable collection of manuscripts and sacred texts representing major world religions. As a result, the society also attracts scholars, researchers, and spiritual seekers interested in religious studies and philosophy.
Flora, Fauna, and the Banyan Tree
Spread across approximately 260 acres, the Theosophical Society campus is rich in biodiversity. Although visitors can explore only selected areas, the gardens are home to migratory birds, fruit bats, snakes, jackals, wild cats, mongooses, hares, and various spider species. One of the most remarkable attractions here is the massive 450-year-old banyan tree. Its aerial roots spread across nearly 60,000 square metres and can provide shade to nearly 3,000 people at once, making it one of the largest banyan trees in India.
A Peaceful Retreat in Chennai
The Theosophical Society offers an ideal setting for peaceful walks, meditation, and quiet reflection. Most trees and plants are clearly labeled, making the walk both relaxing and educational. Visitors can come alone or with friends and family to unwind in this vehicle-free green space. Despite restricted visiting hours, the campus remains a perfect destination for those seeking tranquility, nature, and spiritual calm in the middle of Chennai.
Tourist Attractions near Chennai
B.M. Birla Planetarium in Chennai features modern infrastructure designed to deliver an immersive learning experience. Most importantly, the planetarium houses a 360-degree sky theatre that allows visitors to enjoy celestial shows from every angle. The fully air-conditioned theatre offers comfortable seating for 236 visitors, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience for all age groups.
Moreover, the advanced opt-mechanical projectors and full-dome mirror projection system with a DLP projector bring the mysteries of the universe vividly to life. Established in 2009, this facility was the first of its kind in India, marking a milestone in astronomical education.
Hall of Fame & Interactive Learning Spaces
In addition, a thoughtfully designed Hall of Fame surrounds the main theatre. Here, visitors can explore portraits, statues, models of heavenly bodies, and displays on celestial phenomena and space missions. Notably, the U.S. Consulate in Chennai has donated portraits of renowned astronauts like Neil Armstrong, Sunita Williams, and Kalpana Chawla.
Furthermore, the planetarium includes a classroom, studio, and seminar hall. Eminent astronomy professionals regularly conduct workshops and discussions, helping students and curious minds understand the wonders of outer space. As a result, each show leaves visitors with an unforgettable cosmic experience.
Visiting Time
Open: All days including weekends and public holidays
Closed: Republic Day, Independence Day, and Gandhi Jayanthi
| Science Exhibition | Planetarium Programme | |
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Halls of Science & Technology 10.00 AM to 05.45 PM |
English
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10.30 AM
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11.15 AM
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12.45 PM
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1.30 PM
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3.00 PM
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3.45 PM
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5.15 PM
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Tamil
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12.00 PM
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02.15 PM
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4.30 PM
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B.M. Birla Planetarium, Chennai – FAQ
Where is B.M. Birla Planetarium located in Chennai?
B.M. Birla Planetarium is located in Kotturpuram, Chennai, within the Periyar Science and Technology Centre campus near the Adyar River.
What can visitors experience at B.M. Birla Planetarium?
Visitors can enjoy immersive digital sky theatre shows about astronomy, space science, planets, stars, and the universe, along with science exhibits in the adjacent science centre.
What are the show timings at B.M. Birla Planetarium?
The planetarium conducts multiple shows daily in Tamil and English. Show timings may vary, so visitors are advised to check the official schedule before planning their visit.
What is the entry fee for B.M. Birla Planetarium?
The entry fee is affordable and usually includes access to the science centre exhibits. Ticket prices may differ for adults, children, and group visits.
Is B.M. Birla Planetarium suitable for children and students?
Yes, the planetarium is ideal for children, students, and science enthusiasts, offering educational and interactive learning experiences about space and technology.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Chennai
Ripon Building stands as one of the most magnificent architectural landmarks of Chennai. Authorities commissioned this stunning white structure in 1913, and Loganatha Muthaliyar oversaw its construction, which took nearly four years to complete. During its grand inauguration, around 3,000 elite citizens of the city attended the event, reflecting its importance even then.
Architecture & Design Highlights
The building immediately captures attention with its pure white façade and elegant symmetry. At the center, a prominent clock tower rises gracefully, becoming one of its most recognizable features. Builders used stock bricks for the structure, while teak wood roofing and marble flooring add richness and durability. As a result, the building continues to look majestic even after more than a century.
Civic Importance & Location
Ripon Building serves as the headquarters of the Chennai Corporation, making it a vital administrative center. Because of its official role, authorities usually restrict public entry. The building stands close to Chennai Central Railway Station, which adds to its historical and urban significance.
Restoration & Present Appearance
After recent metro rail renovation work, Ripon Building now shines brighter than ever. Surrounded by a well-maintained garden, it resembles a white palace in the heart of the city. Although a modern glass-block extension exists nearby, the original structure continues to dominate with timeless elegance.
Why Visit Ripon Building?
Overall, Ripon Building remains a must-visit destination for architecture lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone exploring Chennai’s colonial heritage.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Chennai
Fort St. George Museum ranks among the most prominent museums in Chennai. The authorities opened the museum to the public on 31 January 1948, and since then, it has served as a gateway to India’s colonial and military history.
Rich Collections & Galleries
The museum houses an impressive collection of 3,661 antique artifacts, carefully displayed across three floors and ten galleries. These exhibits narrate different phases of modern Indian history. Moreover, visitors can explore a wide range of military memorabilia, including weapons, paintings, and colonial-era artworks.
Arms, Uniforms & War Relics
Notably, the museum showcases rifles, pistols, cannons, swords, daggers, helmets, breastplates, bows, and arrows. In addition, it displays shells fired during the World Wars, British Army uniforms of various ranks, ceremonial attire of Madras Governor’s Bodyguards, medals, medallions, and regimental flags. These collections vividly reflect the military legacy of the British period.
Highlights & Visitor Facilities
Among the most popular exhibits are the paintings of Tipu Sultan’s sons as prisoners and artworks depicting historic construction activities. Furthermore, the museum offers excellent visitor facilities, including an information center, ticket counter, and special assistance for differently-abled visitors with audio guides, Braille brochures, touch screens, and wheelchairs.
Kids Gallery & Library
Finally, children can enjoy the open-air gallery featuring life-size cannon models, while history enthusiasts can browse books on India’s freedom movement in the museum’s library.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Chennai
Roja Muthiah Research Library (RMRL) stands as one of the most important and contemporary cultural institutions of our time. Located at the CPT Campus, Taramani in Chennai, this premier research library actively supports scholars and students engaged in South Indian studies. In particular, it offers extensive research materials and modern facilities across disciplines such as humanities, social sciences, and popular culture.
Vision and Objectives of RMRL
The primary objective of the Roja Muthiah Research Library is to preserve, catalogue, and continuously expand the extraordinary collection assembled by Roja Muthiah. During his lifetime, he created one of the world’s finest private libraries dedicated to Tamil publications. Therefore, RMRL plays a vital role in safeguarding Tamil intellectual and cultural heritage for future generations. For researchers focusing on the social, political, and cultural history of South India, the library provides access to rare and invaluable source materials. Notably, the collection spans more than 150 years of Tamil heritage and cultural documentation.
Vast and Diverse Collections
The library houses over 1,50,000 books, journals, newspapers, pamphlets, and rare audio recordings. These collections cover a wide range of subjects, including indigenous medicine, as well as classical, medieval, and folk Tamil literature. As a result, scholars gain comprehensive insights into multiple dimensions of Tamil society. In addition, RMRL holds an exceptional archive related to Tamil cinema. It features a vast collection of Tamil film magazines, more than 2,000 songbooks, cinema posters, magazine articles, and promotional literature. Furthermore, the library preserves rare oleo-lithographs from Raja Ravi Varma’s workshop, making it an invaluable resource for film and art researchers.
Advanced Cataloguing and Technology
To enhance accessibility, the library developed a machine-readable catalogue using software supported by UNESCO and technology from the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), Pune. Importantly, the cataloguing is done in Tamil for Tamil imprints. Users can view the records by transliterating them into various Indian scripts or Roman scripts. So far, the library has catalogued around 68,000 titles and microfilmed over 15,000 documents.
Research Facilities and Global Reach
RMRL offers excellent facilities, including a well-equipped reading room, extensive reference collections such as encyclopedias, and microfilm reading equipment. Moreover, the library has microfilmed a large number of periodicals, allowing scholars worldwide to access rare materials. With more than 10,000 visitors each year, the Roja Muthiah Research Library continues to serve as a leading research hub. Consequently, it remains one of the most valuable resource centers for academics and researchers studying Tamil language, culture, history, and cinema.
Official website of Roja Muthiah Research Library:
RMRL.IN
Roja Muthiah Research Library, Chennai – FAQ
Where is Roja Muthiah Research Library located?
Roja Muthiah Research Library is located in Taramani, Chennai, within the Tidel Park area. It is a premier research library specializing in Tamil studies.
What is Roja Muthiah Research Library known for?
The library is known for its vast collection of rare Tamil books, manuscripts, newspapers, magazines, and archival materials covering literature, history, culture, and social studies.
Who founded the Roja Muthiah Research Library?
The library was established based on the private collection of Roja Muthiah Chettiar, a passionate bibliophile who collected thousands of Tamil publications.
Can the public access Roja Muthiah Research Library?
Yes, researchers, scholars, and students can access the library collections with prior registration. Visitors are encouraged to check access guidelines before visiting.
What are the working hours of Roja Muthiah Research Library?
The library generally operates during standard weekday working hours. It is advisable to verify the latest timings on the official website before planning a visit.
Nearby Tourist Attractions Chennai
This Museum is a renowned museum of human history and culture located on Pantheon Road in Chennai. Established as the second oldest museum in India, it holds exceptional importance for its vast archaeological and numismatic collections. Moreover, the museum houses rare Roman antiquities, making it a valuable destination for history enthusiasts.
Architecture and Museum Complex
The museum stands out as one of the most impressive cultural institutions in the country. Built in the Indo Saracenic architectural style, the complex reflects grandeur and elegance. Furthermore, the museum campus comprises six buildings and nearly 50 galleries. Together, these galleries display a wide range of artifacts related to zoology, archaeology, natural history, and sculpture.
Art, Manuscripts, and Special Galleries
In addition to historical artifacts, the museum proudly exhibits works by celebrated artists such as Raja Ravi Varma. It also preserves rare palm-leaf manuscripts and exquisite Amravati paintings. Meanwhile, the children’s museum within the complex features engaging galleries of dolls dressed in costumes representing different nations and civilizations. These sections also highlight themes related to science, technology, and transportation.
Unique Attractions
One of the museum’s most striking highlights is the massive whale skeleton suspended in the central hall, which immediately captures visitors’ attention. Besides this, several galleries showcase extensive collections of stamps and coins from across the world. Therefore, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore rare and fascinating exhibits at a very affordable entry fee.
Official website of Government Museum Chennai:
govtmuseumchennai.org
Nearby Tourist Attractions Chennai
The Chennai Lighthouse stands prominently on Kamarajar Salai (Beach Road), directly opposite the office of the Director General of Tamil Nadu Police and All India Radio’s Chennai station. Owing to its prime coastal location, the lighthouse serves as both a navigation landmark and a popular tourist attraction.
Architecture and Structure of Chennai Lighthouse
The lighthouse features a distinctive triangular cylindrical structure with red-and-white horizontal bands. Built using reinforced concrete, the tower rises to 11 storeys and includes a lantern with a double gallery. The top floor offers one of the finest panoramic views of Chennai.
The lighthouse tower connects to a three-storey circular harbour control building. Overall, the tower measures 45.72 metres (150 feet) in height, while the light source stands at 57 metres (187 feet) above mean sea level. The lighting system operates on a 440V, 50 Hz power supply and has a visibility range of 28 nautical miles.
Historical Importance of the Lighthouse
Constructed in 1976 during the British colonial period, the Chennai Lighthouse reflects decades of maritime history. Visitors can learn about this legacy on the ground floor, where informative banners display the evolution and historical significance of lighthouses in Chennai.
Notably, this lighthouse holds the distinction of being the only one in India located entirely within city limits.
Green Technology and Visitor Facilities
The Chennai Lighthouse embraces sustainable technology with a solar-powered elevator, making it a green lighthouse. In fact, it remains the only lighthouse in India with a lift accessible to the public.
Additionally, the premises include a well-maintained, air-conditioned museum that showcases the history of marine navigation. Exhibits include oil-bearing wicks, kerosene lamps, petroleum vapour lights, and early electrical lamps, offering visitors a glimpse into the golden era of maritime technology.
Experience and Nearby Attractions
Despite the city’s heat, the top of the lighthouse remains cool and breezy, providing a refreshing experience even during hot afternoons. Visitors can also find several budget-friendly hotels near the lighthouse, making it convenient for tourists. Furthermore, the beachside location allows visitors to enjoy activities such as swimming, beach sports, and sampling local street food. A short walk along Marina Beach adds to the overall experience.
Entry Fee and Scenic Views
For a nominal entry fee of Rs. 20 per adult, visitors can ascend the lighthouse and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the sea and the Chennai skyline. Even today, the decades-old structure stands strong, combining architectural beauty with historical charm. Ultimately, a visit to the Chennai Lighthouse offers a perfect blend of heritage, technology, and scenic beauty, making it well worth the time.
Lighthouse Chennai – FAQ
Where is the Chennai Lighthouse located?
The Chennai Lighthouse is located on Marina Beach in Chennai, near the Labour Statue and the promenade overlooking the Bay of Bengal.
What is special about the Chennai Lighthouse?
The Chennai Lighthouse is one of the few lighthouses in India with a lift facility and a viewing gallery open to the public, offering panoramic views of Marina Beach and the city skyline.
What are the visiting hours of Chennai Lighthouse?
The lighthouse is generally open to visitors from around 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. It remains closed on Mondays and public holidays.
Is there an entry fee for Chennai Lighthouse?
Yes, visitors are required to pay a nominal entry fee to access the viewing gallery. Charges may vary for adults and children.
What is the best time to visit Chennai Lighthouse?
The best time to visit is in the late afternoon or early evening when the weather is pleasant and visitors can enjoy scenic coastal views.