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QutabMinar is a soaring, 73 m-high tower of victory, was built in 1193 by Qutab-ud-din Aibak,celebrating his victory over Delhi’s last Hindu Kingdom. The tower has five distinct floors, each marked by a projecting balcony with intricate designs and inscriptions. The first three are made of red sandstone; the fourth and fifth of marble and sandstone. At the foot of the tower is the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque to be built in India.
A 7 m-high iron pillar stands in the courtyard of the mosque. This pillar is the subject of many local tales and legends, and it is said that if you can encircle it with your hands while standing with your back to it your wish will be fulfilled.The origins of QutabMinar are shrouded in controversy. Some believe it was erected as a tower of victory to signify the beginning of the Muslim rule in India. Others say it served as a minaret to the muezzins to call the faithful to prayer. The true story, however, is still as much of a mystery is us as it is to the historians who have spent years studying the spectacular monument.
The tower is ornamented by bands of inscriptions and by four projecting balconies supported by elaborately decorated brackets. Even though in ruins, the Light of Islam Mosque in the Qutab complex is one of the most magnificent structures in the world. Qutab-ud-din Aibak started its construction in 1193 and the mosque was completed in 1197.
The colossal monument is not the work of just one ruler. It was started by Qutab-ud-din Aibak, and was later on completed by Muhammad bin Tughlaq. Iltutmush in 1230 and Alla-ud-din Khilji in 1315 made additions to the building. The main mosque comprises of an inner and outer courtyard, ornamented with shafts. Many of these also depict Hindu styles of architecture, and is a perfect representation of the Hindu influence of Islamic architectural styles.
Located in the heart of Delhi, India, this UNESCO World Heritage Site, visible from different parts of the city attracts thousands of visitors every day. It is one of the most popular tourist spots in India and a must visit tourist spot in the itinerary of first time visitors to Delhi, both national and international. The colossal tower has always been one of the favorite spots in Delhi, and people from far and wide are mesmerized by its magnificence.
Location: Delhi,
Year of Completion: 1220
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Special Dishes Available: Parathas, Chaat Dishes, ChholePuri
Nearby Markets: Mehrauli main market, Shridhar Market
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Courtesy: YouTube
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