First up on our overview of Delhi's World Heritage sites is the impressive Humayun's
Tomb. This incredible building houses the tomb of Emperor Humayun, part of the Mughal
dynasty which ruled much of the Indian subcontinent for several hundred years. Humayun himself
was emperor twice during the mid-16th century. The Tomb was built just a few short years
after his death, and was commissioned by his widow, Empress Bega Begum - who was later
buried here herself.
Constructed of rubble masonry, red sandstone and white marble, the tomb is incredibly beautiful
when seen gleaming in the sun. The facades are covered with intricate Islamic patterned
artworks, complete with six-pointed stars, and there's just beauty to be found at every
point. It's obviously reminiscent as well of the famous Taj Mahal in Agra, though this
pre-dates the Taj by several decades.
Interestingly, the Tomb is set alone among a large Persian-style garden, one of the earliest
to be found in India. The gardens are laid out in perfect proportions and in line with
Islamic theology, and the whole complex makes for a beautiful and relaxing afternoon. It's
even possible to forget that you're surrounded on all sides by one of the world's largest
cities! Next up is a fascinating complex on the outskirts
of Delhi. Qutb Minar is a huge minaret, 72 metres high, constructed around 1192 by the
first Muslim Sultan of Delhi. Although its height has been added to over the centuries,
it's still an amazing sight. The beautiful tapering design is also covered in Islamic
scripts and artworks, and the lower levels are also fluted as well which creates a very
striking effect. These days it's considered the oldest still-remaining Muslim building
in India, and the tallest stone tower in India as well.
Also in the complex of monuments is the remains of Quwwat al-Islam Mosque, one of the earliest
mosques constructed in India. This is a fascinating building as you can really see the influence
of local Hindu craftsmen on the design and architecture, creating something that is truly
unique.
And of course, nearby you have the famous Iron Pillar of Delhi, a tall iron pillar dating
to the fourth century AD and the Gupta Dynasty. Although we don't know precisely where and
when it was manufactured, what we do know is that for one thousand seven hundred years,
the enormous pillar has hardly rusted at all - a testament to the incredible skill of ancient
Indian ironsmiths. There's also a beautiful inscription carved onto the pillar, dedicated
to the might and power of King Chandragupta the Second.
The third and final World Heritage site in Delhi is the imposing Red Fort. Located in
the centre of Delhi, this imposing fortress was built in the late 17th century by the
great Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan. It takes its name from the deep red coloured sandstone
material used for the outer walls and ramparts. Despite having the name of "fort", it's really
more of a palace complex, as its where the Emperors and their courts resided for the
last two centuries of their rule in India.
Unfortunately, this was a super disappointing visit for us, as the Fort was closed for two
weeks while we were in Delhi, as part of the 150th anniversary of Gandhi's birth. So we
only managed to see the Fort from the festival outside!