India: The Taj Mahal

The personification of love and the embodiment of devotion, and considered the finest example of Mughal architecture, the Taj Mahal is a momument of phenomenal beauty. Shimmering in the dawn sky and standing majestically on the banks of the River Yamuna, the precious gemstones glimmering as the sun rises, temporarily transforming the purity of the white marble to a pinkish hue… you will be mesmerised from that moment forever more. The exquisite craftsmanship and ornamentation will quite simply take your breath away. It’s no wonder this “Crown Palace” is ranked as one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

But it isn’t only visually stunning and bewitching in structure. Understanding the immense passion behind the reason for the construction will enhance your appreciation of a truly iconic building and bring it to life. Thus the soul of the building lies in a love story. Emperor Shah Jahan designed the Taj Mahal in the memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. They fell in love at first sight in their teens and five years later married. Whilst giving birth to their 14th child, there were complications and Mumtaz Mahal died. It is believed that during her last moments, she made Shah Jahan promise to build the world’s most beautiful monument to celebrate the love they had shared. Heartbroken and inconsolable after the loss of his wife, Shah Jahan ordered the court into mourning for two years. He then proceeded to fulfil her last wish and over the next twenty two years and the labour of 22,000 workers, his tribute the Taj Mahal was built.

Shah Jahan now lies entombed in this mausoleum with his wife Mumtaz Mahal.