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The Charminar in Hyderabad was constructed in 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutab Shah. He built the Charminar to mark the end of plague in the Hyderabad city. Since the construction of the Charminar, the Hyderabad city has almost become synonymous with the monument.
The Charminar is a massive and impressive structure with four minarets. In the evening, with illumination, the great Charminar looks even greater. With the passage of time the Charminar occupied so much importance that it became the heart of all bustling activities. It is in the bustling bazaars around the Charminar that you find the traditional nahari stalls and kulchas of Hyderabad. Hyderabad is one of those few cities, which have a fine blend of modernity and tradition.
The history of Hyderabad begins with the establishment of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. Owing to the inadequacy of water and frequent epidemics of plague and cholera Quli Qutub Shah established the new city with the Charminar at its centre with four great roads fanning out in four cardinal directions.
The plan is a square, each side 20m long, while the four arches are 11m wide and rise 20m from the plinth. The four-storeyed minarets rise 20m from the roof of the massive monument and measure 24m from the plinth. The western section of the roof contains a mosque, ranking among the finest the gifted Qutub Shahi artisans ever built.
Charminar has beautiful arches and domes. Its walls have intricate carvings and moldings. A very good example of the typical Islamic style of architecture, the monument is surrounded by Lad Bazaar which is a bustling market much famous for its many shops selling attractive glass bangles in rainbow colours.
It is especially known for its extensive range of items. In contrast to Taj Mahal, the elevated spires of Charminar are erected into the main edifice. One can reach the highest point of the monument by taking a flight of 149 steps and admire a spectacular view of the city. Constructed with granite and lime mortar, Charminar is a fine specimen of the Cazia style of architecture.
The structure of the monument is the witness to the dexterity of the architects of that time. In the evenings, Charminar gets illuminated and looks exceptionally wonderful.
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Address:
Opposite Mecca Masjid, Hyderabad Old City
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Timings:
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