Taj Mahal, the iconic marble mausoleum located in Agra, India, is not just a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a symbol of eternal love. While most people are familiar with its breathtaking beauty and romantic history, there are several lesser-known facts that add intrigue to this architectural wonder. Let's dive into the secrets of the Taj Mahal...
Eternal White: The Taj Mahal appears to change colors throughout the day, transforming from soft pink in the morning to dazzling white during the day and a golden hue under moonlight. It's a true marvel to witness this enchanting play of colors.
Incredible Architecture: The Taj Mahal's exquisite architecture is a blend of various styles, including Persian, Indian, and Islamic. Its flawless symmetry and intricate details leave visitors awestruck, making it an architectural masterpiece.
Gardens of Paradise: The Taj Mahal is surrounded by stunning gardens known as Charbagh, which are divided into four parts by water channels. These gardens represent the idea of paradise described in the Islamic holy book, the Quran.
Hidden Calligraphy: Adorned with intricate calligraphy, the Taj Mahal features verses from the Quran written in black marble. These scriptures, handcrafted by skilled artisans, beautifully blend into the overall design and add a spiritual touch to the monument.
Mirroring Marvel: The Taj Mahal is perfectly symmetrical, except for one thing – the tombs of Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. While the emperor's tomb is placed beside his beloved, Mumtaz Mahal's tomb is located right below the main dome.
Precious Gem Inlays: The Taj Mahal is embellished with more than 28 types of precious and semi-precious stones, which were brought from various parts of India and other countries. These intricate gem inlays enhance the grandeur and beauty of the monument.
Protection against Earthquakes: The foundation of the Taj Mahal was ingeniously designed to withstand earthquakes. The entire structure is built on wells filled with sand, which act as shock absorbers and prevent damage during seismic activity.
Secret Sanctuary: Inside the Taj Mahal, there's a hidden room called the "Mumtaz's Folly." This room was specially designed to provide the emperor with a peaceful view of the Yamuna River and the surrounding gardens.
Reflective Pool: The Taj Mahal is perfectly reflected in a long pool that stretches towards the monument. This creates a captivating mirror image, enhancing the visual splendor and creating a tranquil ambiance.
Changing Jewelry: The white marble of the Taj Mahal seems to change color based on the time of day and the quality of light. From the soft blush of dawn to the radiant glow of sunset, the Taj Mahal wears different "jewelry" throughout the day, captivating onlookers.
Discovering these hidden facts about the Taj Mahal adds a sense of wonder and fascination to an already remarkable landmark. Visiting this architectural masterpiece allows you to experience the magic firsthand and appreciate the intricate details that make the Taj Mahal a true marvel of the world.
So, whether you're planning a trip to Agra or simply want to expand your knowledge, these lesser-known facts will undoubtedly make your Taj Mahal experience even more memorable.