A distinct Indo-Islamic architectural style that was developed in northern and central India under the Mughal emperors between 16th and 18th century is the Mughal architecture. This unique style of architecture reached its acme during the reign of the emperor Shah Jahan from 1628 to 1658 and its crowning achievement being the magnificent Taj Mahal; one of the eight wonders of the world. The Mughal buildings show an asymmetric pattern in structure as well as character. The key features of the Mughal architecture are the bulbous domes, large halls, delicate ornamentation, massive vaulted gateways and the slender minarets (Tall tower of a mosque with a balcony) with cupolas at the four corners of the buildings. To give you a glimpse of other wow factors of Mughal architecture, here is a list of few other best Mughal constructions,
Jama Masjid, also known as Masjid-e-Jehan Numa is one of the largest mosques in India constructed by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan between 1650 & 56. This architecture is known for its spacious design & is one of the finest architecture of Mughals, designed with white marbles, red stones, has three welcoming gates, four large towers, 131 feet tall minarets, and three domes. In addition to this, Jama Masjid can accommodate around 25,000 people at a time. This architecture is currently open to the public and you can visit this architecture from 7:00 AM to Noon and 1:30 PM to 6:30 PM on all working days.
Red Fort, one of the renowned architects among the Indians was constructed under the leadership of Shah Jahan. Though the Red Fort design is based on the Islamic prototypes, each pavilion is a mixed fusion of Persian and Islamic architectural style including the walls and gardens. This construction was once the main residence of the Mughal emperors and now one of the most famous tourist spots in Delhi. It is also acknowledged as World heritage site by UNESCO. If you have a dream to visit this fort, can go between Tuesday and Sunday from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Pari Mahal, a seven terraced garden was built by Prince Dara Shikhoh (the son of Shah Jahan), and is an apt example of Islamic traditional architecture. The garden that surrounds this Mahal is one of the well-maintained gardens in the world and is a visual treat for nature lovers. This architecture combines the beauty of architecture and nature, so this monument is also called as ‘’Palace of Fairies”. If you have a love for both architecture and greeneries you should visit this mahal for sure. You can visit this mahal on every weekday between 9:30 AM and 5:30 PM.
This Mughal architecture features a blend of Turkish, Persian, and South-Asian construction style and is also known as ‘Fort Rouge’. Initially, this fort was constructed as a military base by Emperor Akbar and later it was converted into a sophisticated residence by his son Jahangir. One of the key features of this fort is the courtyards; enhanced with the renowned pietra dura inlays & the burgundy sandstones that were used on the exterior walls. This Mughal marvel is open to the public and you can visit this fort on every weekday between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
These are some of the examples of Mughal architecture, to India, the Mughal reign gifted magnificent Mughal architectures comprising mosques, museums, forts and so much more which not only attract Indians but international tourists as well. Even today it is hard for modern architects to replicate the design, construction techniques and ornaments used by the Mughals in the ancient day.