Taj Mahal
Photograph by Rowan Heuvel, 2020

The Taj Mahal, a mausoleum, was commissioned in 1632 by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan to house the tomb of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. Designed by a team of architects led by Ustad Ahmad Lahauri, the structure blends elements of Persian, Islamic, and Indian architecture. Constructed over 22 years with the labour of thousands of artisans and craftsmen, the Taj Mahal is renowned for its intricate marble inlay work, calligraphy, and symmetrical layout. The mausoleum stands at the centre of a vast complex featuring elaborate gardens, reflecting pools, and other structures. Its architectural precision and use of materials such as white marble and precious stones reflect the opulence of the Mughal era and its cultural significance as a testament to love and architectural mastery.