Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
World Heritage in India (Archaeological Survey of India)
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection
Moghal Gardens (World Heritage Review)
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1983
Size of heritage:
Coordinates:
Longitude: 78,042°
Latitude: 27,174°
Summary
An immense mausoleum of white marble, built in Agra between 1631 and 1648 by order of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, the Taj Mahal is the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage.
Location on Map
Show bigger map on Openstreetmap
Introduction
The Taj Mahal, located in the Agra District of Uttar Pradesh, India, is one of the most iconic and renowned UNESCO World Heritage sites. This magnificent mausoleum, often referred to as the "Crown of Palaces," is a symbol of eternal love and a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.
History
The Taj Mahal was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 as a mausoleum for his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. The construction of this grand monument took over 20 years and involved the efforts of thousands of skilled artisans and craftsmen.
The architectural design of the Taj Mahal is a fusion of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. The main building is constructed of white marble, which was brought from Makrana, Rajasthan. The intricate carvings, calligraphy, and inlaid precious stones add to its exquisite beauty.
Architecture and Design
The Taj Mahal stands on a raised platform and is surrounded by lush gardens, reflecting pools, and symmetrical structures. The main entrance is a majestic gateway made of red sandstone, known as the Darwaza-i-Rauza. It leads to the expansive Charbagh, a Persian-style garden divided into four quadrants by water channels.
The central focus of the Taj Mahal is the mausoleum itself, which is a symmetrical structure with a large dome at its center. The dome is flanked by four smaller domed chattris (kiosks) at each corner. The interior of the mausoleum houses the tombs of Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal, adorned with intricate marble inlay work and semi-precious stones.
Current State
The Taj Mahal continues to be a significant cultural and architectural landmark, attracting millions of visitors from around the world each year. However, due to environmental factors and the sheer volume of tourists, the monument has faced several challenges in recent years.
Pollution, particularly air pollution, has taken a toll on the Taj Mahal's pristine white marble. To combat this, the Indian government has implemented measures to reduce pollution levels in the surrounding area. Additionally, strict regulations have been put in place to limit the number of visitors and control their impact on the monument.
Conservation efforts are ongoing to preserve the Taj Mahal's structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) regularly conducts restoration and maintenance work to address issues such as cracks, discoloration, and decay. The use of scaffolding and cleaning techniques, including mud packs and laser technology, have been employed to restore the monument's original splendor.
Conclusion
The Taj Mahal stands as a testament to the enduring power of love and the architectural brilliance of the Mughal era. Its timeless beauty and cultural significance have rightfully earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. As efforts continue to preserve and protect this iconic monument, the Taj Mahal will continue to inspire awe and captivate visitors for generations to come.
Hotels and places to stay
Hotel M House
Rudra Vilas
Hotel Amar
Hotel Panna Paradise
Hotel Idea Inn
Hotel Sheela Inn
Hotel Taj Prince
9 Star Hotel
Hotel Shahjahan
Hotel Rashmi
Videos from the area
Videos provided by Youtube are under the copyright of their owners.