Unveiling the Secrets of Qutub Minar: Facts and Trivia You Never Knew
Qutub Minar is an iconic landmark that stands tall and proud in the city of Delhi, India. Touted as the tallest minaret in the world made of bricks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has been a popular tourist attraction for years. But there is more to this historical place than meets the eye. In this article, we’ll delve into some little-known facts and trivia about Qutub Minar that will leave you amazed!
An Overview of Qutub Minar
Qutub Minar was constructed in the 12th century by Qutb ud-Din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. The minaret was built as a victory tower to commemorate the Muslim conquest of Delhi. The construction of Qutub Minar took over two decades and was finally completed by Iltutmish in the 13th century.
The minaret is made of red sandstone and marble and stands at a staggering height of 73 meters. The structure is adorned with intricate carvings and inscriptions, showcasing the skill of the craftsmen who worked on it.
The Mysteries and Trivia of Qutub Minar
1. The Iron Pillar
One of the most intriguing attractions of Qutub Minar is the Iron Pillar. Standing just next to the minaret, this iron pillar is over 1600 years old and bears no rust or corrosion. Despite being exposed to the elements for centuries, the pillar has stood the test of time, and scientists are still unable to explain how it has managed to remain rust-free.
2. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque
The Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque is located right next to the Qutub Minar and is considered one of the oldest mosques in India. The mosque was built using the demolished remains of 27 Hindu and Jain temples, which makes it a unique blend of Indo-Islamic architecture.
3. The Missing Top Floors
Another interesting fact about Qutub Minar is that it was originally planned to have seven floors. However, the top floors were destroyed by lightning strikes in the 14th and 15th centuries, which resulted in reducing the height of the minaret.
4. The Begumpur Mosque
Just a kilometer away from Qutub Minar lies the Begumpur Mosque, which is believed to have been built during the same period as the minaret. The mosque is a perfect example of Lodi-era architecture and is an important historical monument in its own right.
5. The Sundial
A lesser-known feature of Qutub Minar is the sundial located on the walls of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. This sundial is believed to be one of the oldest in the world and was used to determine prayer timings during the early days of Islam in India.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Qutub Minar is not just a beautiful structure, but a treasure trove of historical facts and trivia. From the rust-free Iron Pillar to the missing top floors, every aspect of this minaret has a story to tell. So the next time you visit this iconic monument, make sure to keep an eye out for these intriguing features and let yourself be transported back in time!
(Note: Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)
Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.