THE CROWN OF PALACES
The Taj Mahal (which literally translates to 'crown of palaces') is a white marble mausoleum located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The Taj Mahal is widely recognized as "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage". It is regarded by many as the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements from Persian, Ottoman Turkish and Indian architectural styles.
In 1983, the Taj Mahal became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While the white domed marble mausoleum is the most familiar component of the Taj Mahal, it is actually an integrated complex of structures. The construction began around 1632 and was completed around 1653, employing thousands of artisans and craftsmen. Ustad Ahmad Lahauri is generally considered to be the principal designer.
The tomb is the central focus of the entire complex of the Taj Mahal. This large, white marble structure stands on a square plinth and consists of a symmetrical building with an iwan (an arch-shaped doorway) topped by a large dome and finial. The marble dome that surmounts the tomb is the most spectacular feature. Its height of around 115 ft is about the same as the length of the base, and is accentuated as it sits on a cylindrical "drum" which is roughly 23 ft high. Watch the National Geographic Documentary video below - "Secrets of the Taj Mahal" ...
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