The Taj Mahal
The Taj Mahal is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Located in Agra, India, it was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. Widely regarded as one of the greatest works of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and took 22 years to complete. The building is made of white marble, decorated with intricate carvings and inlaid with precious stones. The building's central dome is surrounded by four smaller domes, and the entire structure is set within a large garden complex.
One of the most striking features of the Taj Mahal is its symmetry. The building is perfectly balanced, with the same character on each side. The garden itself is also symmetrically designed, with a reflecting pool in the center that perfectly mirrors the Taj Mahal.
Another notable feature of the Taj Mahal is the intricate mosaic that covers most of the building. Mosaic pieces consist of precious stones such as agate, jasper and turquoise, arranged in intricate patterns and designs. The interior of the building is also decorated with carvings and inlays, including verses from the Quran engraved on the walls.
The Taj Mahal is not only a masterpiece of architecture, but also a symbol of eternal love. It was built to commemorate the love between Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal who died in childbirth. The building has become a symbol of love and devotion, attracting millions of tourists from all over the world every year.
In recent years, there have been concerns about the impact of pollution and environmental factors on the Taj Mahal. The building is affected by air pollution, which causes the marble to turn yellow and deteriorate over time. The Indian government has taken steps to address the problem, including closing factories and other sources of pollution in the region.
Despite these challenges, the Taj Mahal remains one of the most impressive structures in the world. Its beauty and symmetry are a testament to the architectural genius of the Mughals, and its message of eternal love and devotion continues to inspire visitors from all over the world.
