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Qutub Minar
Context:
In 2023-24, Qutub Minar, a 13th-century marvel built by the Delhi Sultanate, surpassed Agra Fort of the Mughal Empire as the second most visited monument by foreigners, according to Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) visitor statistics.
Qutb Minar Overview:
- Built in early 13th century by Delhi Sultanate, India’s tallest masonry tower at 72.5 metres.
- Construction spanned 75 years, started by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak in AD 1199, expanded by Shamsuddin Iltutmish.
- Features intricate honeycomb design and inscriptions repaired by Firuz Shah Tughlaq, Sikandar Lodi, and Major R. Smith.
Key Points:
- Qutub Minar commemorates Muslim conquests over Delhi’s Rajput rulers, doubling as a minaret for mosque calls.
- Includes a 7-metre iron pillar in mosque courtyard.
- Engraved with Quranic verses and fine arabesque decorations.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1993.
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque:
- Established by Qutb-ud-Din Aibak in AD 1198, incorporating pillars from 27 Hindu and Jain temples.
- Expanded by Shamsuddin Iltutmish and Alauddin Khalji, includes a unique five-arched screen and ancient Iron Pillar.
Tomb of Iltutmish: Constructed in AD 1235, a red sandstone chamber adorned with Saracenic motifs and inscriptions.
Alai Darwaza and Alai Minar:
- Alai Darwaza Gate, masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art built in AD 1311 by Alauddin Khalji.
- Alai Minar, intended to surpass Qutb Minar, stands incomplete at 25 metres.
Architectural Significance:
- Represents early Islamic architecture in India, blending Persian and Indian styles.
- Complex includes funerary buildings showcasing technological and artistic advancements.