Interesting Facts About the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is one of the most iconic and beautiful structures in the world. Located in Agra, India, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and attracts millions of visitors each year. Here are some interesting facts about the Taj Mahal:

1. Construction: The Taj Mahal was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Construction began in 1632 and took approximately 20 years to complete.

2. Architectural Style: The Taj Mahal is a perfect blend of various architectural styles, including Persian, Islamic, and Indian. It is considered a masterpiece of Mughal architecture.

3. White Marble: The entire structure of the Taj Mahal is made of white marble, which was brought from Makrana in Rajasthan. The marble was transported over 200 miles to the construction site.

4. Changing Colors: The color of the Taj Mahal changes throughout the day, depending on the sunlight. It appears pinkish in the morning, white during the day, and golden in the moonlight.

5. Symmetry: The Taj Mahal is perfectly symmetrical in every aspect. The four minarets surrounding the main dome are slightly tilted outward to protect the main mausoleum in case of an earthquake.

6. Gardens: The Taj Mahal is surrounded by beautiful gardens, known as the Charbagh. These gardens are divided into four equal parts by water channels, representing the four rivers of paradise mentioned in the Quran.

7. Calligraphy: The walls of the Taj Mahal are adorned with intricate calligraphy. Verses from the Quran are inscribed on the entrance gate, the main mausoleum, and other parts of the structure.

8. Minarets: The Taj Mahal has four minarets, each standing at a height of approximately 138 feet. These minarets were built slightly away from the main structure to prevent them from falling on the main mausoleum in case of an earthquake.

9. Reflections: The Taj Mahal is reflected in a large pool of water, known as the Yamuna River, which adds to its beauty. The reflection creates a mesmerizing effect, especially during sunrise and sunset.

10. Cost: The construction of the Taj Mahal is estimated to have cost around 32 million rupees, which is equivalent to approximately 1 billion US dollars today. The materials used in the construction were sourced from various parts of India and Asia.

11. Changing Decorations: The interior of the Taj Mahal was once adorned with precious stones and jewels. However, most of them were looted by the British during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

12. Preservation Efforts: Over the years, the Taj Mahal has faced various threats, including pollution and deterioration. To protect this iconic structure, several preservation efforts have been undertaken, including a ban on nearby industries and the use of eco-friendly materials for restoration.

13. Inspiration for Other Structures: The Taj Mahal has inspired the construction of several other buildings around the world. Notable examples include the Bibi Ka Maqbara in Aurangabad, India, and the Taj Mahal Bangladesh in Dhaka.

14. World Wonder: In 2007, the Taj Mahal was declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World through a global poll conducted by the New7Wonders Foundation.

15. Symbol of Love: The Taj Mahal is often regarded as a symbol of love and is considered one of the most romantic places in the world. It is a popular destination for couples and honeymooners.

In conclusion, the Taj Mahal is not only a magnificent architectural marvel but also a symbol of love and devotion. Its beauty, symmetry, and historical significance continue to captivate people from all around the world.