The Taj Mahal, located in Agra, India, is one of the most iconic and beautiful structures in the world. Built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, it is considered a masterpiece of architectural design and a symbol of eternal love. Here are 20 amazing facts and things to know about the Taj Mahal:
1. UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983. It is recognized for its outstanding universal value and cultural significance.
2. Construction Period
The construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and was completed in 1653. It took approximately 21 years and employed thousands of artisans and craftsmen.
3. Architectural Style
The Taj Mahal is a perfect blend of various architectural styles, including Persian, Islamic, and Indian. It showcases intricate carvings, inlaid gemstones, and delicate marble screens.
4. Changing Colors
The Taj Mahal appears to change colors depending on the time of day. It looks pinkish in the morning, milky white in the evening, and golden under the moonlight.
5. Unique Marble
The marble used in the construction of the Taj Mahal is known as Makrana marble. It was brought from the quarries of Makrana in Rajasthan, over 300 kilometers away.
6. Symmetrical Design
The Taj Mahal is perfectly symmetrical in its design, with identical structures on both sides. The only exception is the tomb of Shah Jahan, which is placed asymmetrically to maintain balance.
7. Minarets
The Taj Mahal features four minarets, each standing at a height of approximately 40 meters. They were built to provide a sense of scale and balance to the main mausoleum.
8. Reflecting Pool
In front of the Taj Mahal, there is a large reflecting pool known as the “Charbagh.” It creates a stunning mirror image of the monument, adding to its beauty.
9. Calligraphy
The walls of the Taj Mahal are adorned with intricate calligraphy from the Quran. The verses are beautifully carved in black marble and are a testament to the Mughal’s love for art and literature.
10. Gardens
The Taj Mahal is surrounded by lush gardens, known as the “Charbagh Gardens.” These gardens are divided into four quadrants, symbolizing the four rivers of Paradise mentioned in the Quran.
11. Optical Illusion
The Taj Mahal is designed in such a way that it appears larger than it actually is. The architects used various techniques, such as tapering the walls and raising the platform, to create this optical illusion.
12. Changing Perspectives
As you move closer to the Taj Mahal, its size seems to change. This effect is known as the “vaulting effect” and was intentionally created by the architects to enhance the grandeur of the monument.
13. Precious Gemstones
The Taj Mahal was once adorned with precious gemstones, including diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires. However, most of them were looted during the British colonial era.
14. Restoration Efforts
Over the years, the Taj Mahal has undergone several restoration projects to preserve its beauty. The most recent restoration was completed in 2018, ensuring its longevity for future generations.
15. Inspiration for Other Monuments
The Taj Mahal has inspired the construction of several other monuments around the world. Examples include the Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad and the Taj Mahal Bangladesh in Dhaka.
16. Symbol of Love
The Taj Mahal is often referred to as the “Epitome of Love” or the “Symbol of Love.” It stands as a testament to the eternal love between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal.
17. Visitor Numbers
The Taj Mahal attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year. It is estimated that over 7 to 8 million people visit the monument annually.
18. Moonlit Viewings
On certain nights, the Taj Mahal is open for night viewings during the full moon. This magical experience allows visitors to witness the monument in a different light.
19. Threats to the Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal faces several threats, including air pollution, acid rain, and groundwater depletion. Efforts are being made to address these issues and protect this iconic structure.
20. Eternal Beauty
The beauty of the Taj Mahal is timeless and continues to captivate people from all walks of life. Its architectural grandeur and romantic history make it a must-visit destination for travelers around the world.
Visiting the Taj Mahal is a truly awe-inspiring experience. Its majestic architecture, rich history, and enduring legacy make it a treasure that should be cherished for generations to come.
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