INDIA: The Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, northern India, is one of the most famous monuments in the world.

It is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died in 1631, the Taj Mahal was completed 17 years later in 1648.

The structure symbolizes eternal love and is considered one of the finest examples of Indo-Islamic architecture, blending Persian, Turkish, and Indian styles.

It was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983.

Constructed from white marble, the mausoleum stands on the banks of the Yamuna River and is adorned with intricate carvings, calligraphy, and inlaid gemstones.

The Taj Mahal’s colour changes throughout the day, reflecting hues of pink at sunrise, white at noon, and golden at sunset. (I can’t personally attest to that. We arrived in the early morning at sunrise to beat the crowds and it was misty.)

The intricate pietra dura inlay work features semi-precious stones such as jade, turquoise, and onyx.

The calligraphy, inscribed in black marble, features verses from the Quran.

There is a story that the artisans and craftsmen had their arms or hands cut off after completing the Taj Mahal. This was to ensure that no other monument as beautiful as the Taj Mahal could ever be built again. 

It is a widely circulated myth and lacks historical evidence. Historians say that there are no credible historical records or accounts from contemporary Mughal sources that support this claim. Instead, records suggest that the workers were well-compensated and continued working on other Mughal structures, such as the Red Fort in Delhi.

There is a central dome, surrounded by four minarets.

 The monument is a symmetrical design. What I never knew before (which doesn’t say much) is that the Taj Mahal complex includes two mosques, but only one of them is an actual functioning mosque. The main mosque, located to the west of the Taj Mahal, is made of red sandstone and is used for prayers.

The second structure, on the eastern side, is an identical-looking building however, it is not a mosque but was built to provide symmetrical balance to maintain architectural harmony. Its primary purpose was likely as a guesthouse or simply to ensure the complex’s perfect symmetry. Apparently it was never used.

 A reflecting pool in front of the monument provides stunning reflections. There is an iconic photo of Princess Diana sitting alone on a bench in front of the Taj Mahal.

Photo: Andrew Hesser, a fellow tour mate

The Taj Mahal is considered a timeless testament to love, devotion, artistic brilliance and one of the most recognizable monuments in history.