Qutub Minar in Delhi
Situated in Mehrauli, Qutub Minar in Delhi is among the most famous landmarks of the city. Qutub Minar is named after a Turkish saint and successor of Aibak, Qutub –ud-din Bakhtar Kaki.
The most unique feature of this historical monument is its height which makes it the tallest 234 feet high minaret in India. The construction was started by the first emperor of Delhi, Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the slave dynasty at the end of 12th century, but after his death, the responsibility to complete the tower was under taken by his successor and son-in-law Shamas-ud-Din Iltumish. The last and fifth storey was made and repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq during 1351-88 A.D. The tower is visible from most of the parts of city. The design of the monument is very much inspired by the Persian architecture style. Its tower and walls are full of the verses and numerous inscriptions from the holy Koran that are carved on it tell a tale of its history.
Qutub Minar is built on a very big complex of land and apart from the tower, it also houses a madrasa, an sncient iron pillar, a mosque, and various other tombs. It has number of floors and storeys which makes it so tall and every floor is carved with inscriptions to prove it a work of Iltumish. It takes 378 steps to climb to reach to the top of the tower from where you can get the best view of the city from the highest point.
Qutub Minar is the finest example of the Mughul architecture. It is the greatest master piece of history that was believed to be built for offering prayers and also to celebrate victories in battles.
It’s a prime tourist spot and can be visited from sunrise to sunset on all days of the week.