Monument
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Medieval Period

Taj Mahal

Architectural Marvel

Iconic ivory-white marble mausoleum commissioned by Shah Jahan as a tomb for his wife Mumtaz Mahal.

1632-1653 CE
Agra, Uttar Pradesh
Mughal
Taj Mahal

Built

1632 CE - 1653 CE

Location

Agra, Uttar Pradesh

Architect

Ustad Ahmad Lahauri

Category

Religious Architecture

Historical Overview

The Taj Mahal stands as one of the world's most recognizable architectural masterpieces and a testament to eternal love. Commissioned by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth in 1631, this magnificent mausoleum took over 20 years to complete. The structure represents the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, seamlessly blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian architectural styles. Built entirely of white marble inlaid with precious stones, the Taj Mahal changes color throughout the day, appearing pinkish at dawn, milky white during the day, and golden under moonlight. The complex includes a main tomb, mosque, guest house, and extensive gardens, all designed according to Islamic principles of paradise.

Key Features

Indo-Islamic architecture
Marble inlay work (Pietra Dura)
Symmetrical design
Charbagh garden layout
Central dome with four minarets
Calligraphic inscriptions

Dimensions

73 meters (240 feet)
Total Height
55 meters × 55 meters
Base Size
35 meters diameter
Main Dome