What Makes the Taj Mahal a Wonder? 10 Fascinating Facts

The Taj Mahal, one of the most famous symbols of love and architectural marvels in the world, proudly stands on the banks of the Yamuna River in Agra, India. Built centuries ago, its grandeur and timeless beauty still amaze millions of visitors every year. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply curious about the story behind this monument, here are some interesting facts about the Taj Mahal.

A Love Story in Marble

The Taj Mahal was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth in 1631. Deeply saddened by his loss, Shah Jahan decided to honour her with a magnificent mausoleum, which would serve as a symbol of their eternal love. Completed in 1648, the Taj Mahal has since been regarded as one of the most prestigious tributes to love.

An Architectural Marvel

The Taj Mahal is an outstanding masterpiece of Mughal architecture, it is blending Indian, Persian, and Islamic styles. It was constructed with the help of around 20,000 artisans and craftsmen from across Asia, showcasing their diverse skills. The central dome, surrounded by four smaller domes, reaches a height of 73 meters (240 feet), making it an extraordinary architectural feature.

Crafted with Precious Materials

The magnificent white marble of the Taj Mahal was sourced from Makrana(Rajasthan), while other materials were brought from all over the world: turquoise from Tibet, jade from China, sapphires from Sri Lanka, and coral from Arabia. Using the intricate technique of pietra dura, these semi-precious stones were inlaid into the marble, creating intricate floral designs that shimmer in the sunlight and moonlight.

A World Heritage Site

The Taj Mahal was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, and it was praised for its extraordinary beauty, being called the “Jewel of Muslim art in India.” As one of the most visited sites in India, it annually welcomes millions of tourists and is considered a wonder of the world.

An Illusion of Perfection

The Taj Mahal’s most attractive feature is its symmetry and optical illusion. Instead of standing completely upright around the central dome, the minarets around it slightly lean outward. This design helps protect the main mausoleum in case of an earthquake, as the minarets would fall away from it rather than towards it.

Colour-Changin marvel

The Taj Mahal changes colour based on the time of day and the light conditions. In the morning, the marble appears pink, under the midday sun it turns a bright white, and during moonlight it becomes a soft golden hue. This phenomenon is said to represent the changing moods of the monument.

The Black Taj Mahal Legend

According to local legends, Shah Jahan had planned to build a similar Taj Mahal in black marble on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. This “Black Taj Mahal” was supposed to be his final resting place, mirroring the white marble tomb of Mumtaz Mahal. However, this project was never completed because Shah Jahan was overthrown by his son Aurangzeb and spent his final years in prison.

Environmental Challenges

Pollution and environmental factors have posed serious threats to the ancient white marble of the Taj Mahal. Acid rain, river pollution, and air pollutants have contributed to the yellowing of the stone, prompting restoration efforts. The Indian government has implemented strict rules and measures to protect the monument, including restricting vehicular access within a certain radius.

The Symbol of India’s Rich Heritage

The Taj Mahal is more than just an architectural marvel; it has become a symbol of India’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Its image appears on currency notes, commemorative stamps, and even in Bollywood films, captivating people’s imaginations.

A Global Wonder

In 2007, the Taj Mahal was voted as one of the new wonders of the world, due to its universal appeal and extraordinary architectural beauty. Its attraction draws visitors from all over the world, making it one of the most photographed and admired sites globally.