Humayun Tomb
This
tomb, which as built by emperor Humayun's wife, took eight years to
complete. The emperor's wife Begai Begum was buried in the tomb and the
structure is first of its kind built in the center of a well - planned
garden. The combination of white marble and red sand stone was a great
influence on later Mughal architecture. It is generally regarded as a
prototype of the famed Taj Mahal of Agra.
Built in the mid 16th century, Humayun's Tomb is an early
example of Mughal architecture built in Delhi. A rose petal sandstone
mausoleum built in proper Mughal style is a beautiful memorial to the
poet king. Octagonal in shape, raised on a plinth, with double domes,
high arches, laid in the centre of a large walled enclosure, the
monument is an imposing structure. A baradari (pavilion) occupies the
centre of the eastern wall and a hamam (bath chamber) the centre of
northern wall. Approached from four sides by paved stone paths which
divide the garden into four squares, the mausoleum also has the
distinction of having several of the Mughal rulers buried here. Besides
Bega Begum herself, Hamida Begum (Akbar's mother), Dara Shikoh (Shah
Jahan's son), Bahadur Shah II (the last Mughal Emperor) and many others.
Humayun's wife is also buried in the red and white sandstone, black and
yellow marble tomb.
Humayun's Tomb, was built in AD 1565. Designed by Presian architect,
Mirza Ghyas, Humayun's Tomb shows a marked shifts from the persian
tradition of using coloured tiles for ornamentation. Located in the
midst of a large square garden, screened by high walls, with gateways to
the south and west, the tomb is a square tower surrounded by a
magnificent marble dome. The dome stands 140 feet high from the base of
the terrace and is topped with a copper pinnacle.
The garden at this tomb has been laid out in the Persian style of a
Chahr Bagh, with paved stone avenues and narrow water channels. It is
still maintained in its original grandeur. Open on all weekdays from
sunrise to sunset. Entry fee for those above - 12 years - Rs. 5.00 Free
entry on Fridays.
