Arts and Humanities Blog - Net Catalogue

The Taj Mahal is generally considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, a style that combines elements of Persian, Turkish and Indian architecture. While the white domed marble mausoleum is the most familiar part of the monument, the Taj Mahal is actually and integrated complex of structures. It was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 when it was described as a “universally admired masterpiece of  the world’s heritage”.

Shah Jahan, emperor of the Mughal Dynasty, during a period of great prosperity, controlled extensive resources. In 1631, his second wife died during the birth of their daughter Gauhara Begum, their fourteenth child. Shah Jahan was reportedly inconsolable. He decided to build a monument to his wife’s memory. Construction of the Taj Mahal begun in Agra soon after Mumtaz’s death. The principal mausoleum was completed in 1648 and the surrounding buildings and gardens, five years later.

The Taj Mahal incorporates and expands on many design traditions, particularly Hindu, Persian and earlier Mughal architecture. Specific inspiration came from a number of successful Mughal buildings. These include Humayun’s Tomb, Itmad-Ud-Daulah’s Tomb and Shah Jahan’s own Jama Maszid in Delhi. Under his patronage, Mughal building reached new levels of refinement. Whilst previous Mughal buildings had primarily been constructed of red sandstone, Shah Jahan promoted the use of white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones.

The Taj Mahal is a splendid sight on full moon nights, when its domed shape seems to be giving off a pearly luminescence. It is the most sought-after tourist destination for international travelers in India.