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Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal in memory of his
wife, Mumtaz Mahal. No cost was spared to
make it the most beautiful monument in the world.
The Taj Mahal was designed by several architectures under the direction of Shah Jahan. Architects, craftsmen, stonemasons, and calligraphers were hired. The art of inlay work was perfected during the Moguls reign. Beautiful stones were cut and made into floral patterns in the marble. Two nobles were appointed to oversee the project. To begin the project, the Jamana River had to be redirected in order to improve the view from the tomb. To ensure that no water would get into the building, an area of land the size of three football fields was cleared and a foundation was dug. Shah Jahan chose white marble to build the mausoleum. The background plays a magical effect with the colors. At different times of the day, the marble appears to be different colors. In the morning when the sun is coming up it shines a pinkish color. As evening approaches it has a milky white look. Then, when the sun is gone and the moon is out, the marble has a golden hue. The stones sparkle in the glow of the moon. Red sandstone was chosen for the base, the garden walls, rest house, mosque, and the entry arch. The terrace was done in blue-veined white marble. The 240 foot white marble dome was placed in the center. On the four corners, four slender minartest were built. Each minaret is approximately 138 feet high. About 20,000 workers spent approximately 22 years to build the Taj Mahal. It is truly a symbol of eternal love. |
