Mughal Architecture

The Mughal’s who were the direct decedents of Genghis Khan, ruled over a vast land (approximately 1.2 sq. miles/3.2 million kilometers). This included modern day Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Mughal dynasty came into existence in 1526 after Emperor Babur’s victory at Panipat (India).

During 16^th, 17^th and 18^th centuries, Mughal architecture evolved through the amalgamation of Indian, Islamic, Persian and Turkish architecture. The highlight of Mughal architecture is its symmetry and decorative work. Apart from extensive use of white and red marble, beautiful inlay work of semi precious stones is a highlight of Mughal architecture.

Though the construction in Mughal style started from Babur’s time but the Mughal architecture reached its zenith during Shah Jahan’s reign. Shah Jahan alone is responsible for the construction of Taj Mahal, Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque), Agra fort )in it's current form), Lahore fort and Jama Masjid Delhi.

Here is a little taste of architecture, pictures do not do justice but as they say they are worth a thousand words.

Agra Fort:

The first mention of the fort is at around 11th century, however when emperor Akbar realized the importance of the fort and Agra. He enhanced and fortified the fort with red sandstone and established his state capital there naming "Fatehpur". However it was emperor Shah Jahan who modified the Agra fort to it's current state.

Main entrance of Agra fort

Buland darvaza (Tall gate)

Ceiling detail of Buland darvaza

Third gate of the fort

Akbar's palace

Highly decorative columns

Detail on one of the towers

Jehangiri mehal(palace)

Khas Mehal 

Interior detail of Khas Mehal

inlay work on marble (Khas mehal)

Interior buildings of Fort

View of Taj Mahal from Musamman (burj)tower Agra Fort

The outer wall

Agra fort at night

Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque)

Moti Masjid was built by Shah Jahan for his and the royal family's use. It is a structure of white marble the favorite construction material of Shah Jahan. Since the marble mosque shines like a pearl (Moti) that is why it is called Pearl Mosque.

Moti masjid (pearl mosque)

Interior of Moti masjid

A view of the river from Moti masjid

to be continued...

credits: google, wikipedia, indian tourism, retinacharmer.com etc