QUTUB-MINAR AT NEW DELHI
The history of construction:
Construction started in 1192.
First builder: Qutbuddin Aibak (founder of the Mamluk dynasty)
Construction completed by: Iltutmish (son-in-law and successor of Qutbuddin Aibak)
Height: 72.5 m (about 238 feet)
The number of levels: 5
The construction of Qutub Minar was started by Qutubuddin Aibak, but he built only the first floor. Later, Iltutmish built the remaining three floors, and then Firoz Shah Tughlaq built or rebuilt the fifth and last floor, which was damaged by the earthquake.
The Purpose and Importance:
The Qutub Minar was originally built as a victory pillar. It was the symbol of Muhammad Ghori's victory in the Second Battle of Tarain in 1192 and the beginning of Islamic rule in India. Many historians believe that it was named after the nearby Qutubuddin Bakhtiar Kaki.
It is located next to the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque in Delhi, which is also one of the oldest mosques in India.
The architectural features:
Material: Red sandstone and, in some places, marble and white stone have been used.
Style: A combination of Persian and Hindu architecture with Islamic architecture.
At the top of each floor, there are balconies with rich ornamentation.
The minaret is inscribed with verses from the Qur'an and features inscriptions in Arabic and Nagari scripts.
Famous examples:
The Qutub Minar complex has some other important architecture:
Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque— Built in 1193, it is the oldest mosque in Delhi.
Iron Pillar (Iron Pillar)—Built in the Gupta period, which is about 1600 years old, and has not yet rusted.
Alai Minar—Alauddin Khilji took the initiative to build another large minaret, but it remains incomplete.
Tomb of Imam Zamin—A small tomb built during the Mughal period.
Location and information for visitors:
Location: Mehrauli, South Delhi
Entry Fee: Low cost for Indian nationals, a separate fee for foreigners. Visitors can explore these historical sites throughout the year, with guided tours available to provide deeper insights into their architectural significance and historical context. It’s recommended to check for any specific visiting hours or days when certain areas might be closed for maintenance or restoration.
Opening hours: From morning to evening.
Nearest Metro Station: Qutub Minar Metro Station
Today's Qutub Minar:
Qutub Minar is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delhi. Every day, thousands of domestic and foreign tourists come here to get a touch of history and enjoy the beauty of architecture. Night illumination and meticulous maintenance make it even more charming.
The conclusion:
Qutub Minar is not just a minaret; it is a unique symbol of India's history, architecture, and culture. It marks the beginning of Islamic rule in the Indian subcontinent, symbolizing ancient architectural styles and religious coexistence. Ancient script, ornamentation, and architecture—all this is a living history document.
I hope you found this article on the history of Qutub Minar in Delhi both informative and engaging.
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