Qutub Minar

Introduction:
One of the significant evidence of commencement of Muslim era in India is Qutub Minar. Constructed by the first Mughal ruler of India, Qutub-ud-in Aibak in the year 1193 A.D, Qutub Minar is one of the most sought after tourist destination of Delhi.

This world's tallest brick minaret is positioned in the Qutub complex, amidst the ruins of ancient Jain temples. Surrounded by several other ancient and medieval structures and ruins, this Victory tower of Muslim period is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Architectural Significance of the Qutub Minar:
Made up of red sandstone and marble, Qutub Minar is undoubtedly one of the finest stone towers of India. Originally, rose to a height of 72.5m, with a circular stairway of 379 steps leading to the top, Qutub Minar is a five storey minaret. Gradually decreasing upwards, Qutub Minar has a diameter of 14.3 m at the base while the top floor has a diameter of 2.75 m only. The Great Slave Dynasty emperor Qutub-ud-in Aibak has only built the first floor whereas the next three storey were constructed by Sultan Iltutmish, and the last and fifth storey was constructed by Feroz Tuglaq in 1368. Only, the first floor is built of red sandstone while the remaining ones are made up of marble and sandstone.

Qutub Minar is one of the best exemplar of Indo-Islamic architecture. Verses of Holy Quran and some intricate carvings, floral motifs and arabesque are inscribed on this magnificent tower . The tower tapers from a base of 14.32 m to 2.75 m at its top and took 20 years to complete. Encircled with some of the fine examples of Indian artwork, Qutub Minar could behold your attention at the very first sight with its height and architectural design.

Important Buildings Near Qutub Minar:
Not only Qutub Minar, the monuments constructed near Qutub Minar are also capable of attracting large number of tourist folks. Qutub complex, which has several ancient structures enhances the beauty of Qutub Minar.

Some of the important monuments that are available inside the Qutub Complex are :
Iron Pillar: Built in the courtyard of the Quwwatu'l-Islam, the famous Iron Pillar is situated in Qutub Minar complex and dated back to 4th century. This iron pillar is adorned with Sanskrit inscription in Gupta script and the peculiar style of its 'Amalaka' capital. This things confirm the date of construction.

Quwwatu'l-Islam Masjid: There is also an ancient mosque named Quwwatu'l-Islam Masjid, is located very close to Qutub Minar. This beautiful mosque is believed to have been built using the carved stone slabs and materials of the ruined Hindu temples that were destroyed to mark the beginning of the Muslim era in India. This mosque is decorated with delicate brocade designs and Islamic inscriptions.

Tomb of Iltutmish: Constructed by Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish, son-in-law and successor of Qutub-ud-din Aibak, this tomb lies to the north-west of Quwwatu'l Islam Mosque. Shamsu'd-Din Iltutmish has built this tomb for himself in 1235 A.D. Interior of this tomb is decorated with Islamic calligraphy.

Besides these, one can also see the tomb of Adham Khan and Zafar Mahal within Qutub complex and the tomb of Jamali-Kamali behind it.

Things To Do In Qutub Minar:
Qutub Minar could offer you myriad of activities to attract globe trotters.

Sight seeing activity: One of the most famous activity that tourist indulge in Qutub Minar is Sight seeing activity. There are several ancient structures that are built within the Qutub Minar complex that can attract you at the very first sight.

Photography: Along with sightseeing activity, you can even indulge yourself in photography. Qutub Minar is an ideal spot to click some excellent snaps as a memoir of your trip.