Location
- Hyderabad
Best Time To Visit - June to March
The majestic Charminar always falls first in the priority list of all those
who visit the city of Nawabs, Hyderabad. At times we find Hyderabad to be
synonymous with Charminar. In fact the 400-year old city of Hyderabad cannot
be imagined without Charminar, the same way as Agra without Taj Mahal. This
great monument was built by Mohammad Quli Qutab Shah in 1591 in the honour
of his wife, Bhagmati. This beautiful structure is made of granite, lime,
mortar and some say of pulverised marble. Located in the heart of the city,
Charminar is a perfect eye catcher.
From a far of glance the monument may appear to be solid and sturdy but as
one approaches nearby one finds it to be a piece of romaticism. The
Charminar is a live example of the Indo-Saracenic tradition, which is a
blend of Hindu and Muslim traditions. " The Arc de triumph of the East",
is the other name of the magnificent Charminar. The monument showcases the
mastery of Qutub Shahi architecture. Located amidst the colourful shops of
Lad Bazaar which holds a glittering collection of bangles, pearls and bridal
wares.
The Structure
The Charminar is a massive squarish structure built of granite, lime and
mortar. There are four tall minarets that rises from the squarish base. The
four pillars or minarets rises in four different directions. Each arch is 11
metres wide and lifts to 20 metres to the pinnacle of the plinth. However
the clocks were to the archways were added later in the year 1889.
The upper levels of Charminar were used as Madarsa and mosque from where
the royal proclamations were read aloud to the assembled public. The
beautiful mosque is situated on the western section of the top floor facing
the holy city of Mecca. Atop the great monument are 45 prayer spaces for the
devout where they can offer worship in an atmosphere unspoilt by the bustle
of the city.
The long golden history of Hyderabad can be reflected in every part and
corner of Charminar. Who hasn't heard of the bazaars of Hyderabad? They are
places where one can find everything of one's like. To mention a few like -
Bangles, pearls and other bridal wares. There is a belief that Charminar was
built to mark the end of an epidemic of plague in the city.
