India
Qutb Minar, New Delhi
(AH1/AH2) Built in the early 13th century, the red sandstone
tower of Qutb Minar is located a few kilometres south of Delhi. It stands
72.5 m high. The surrounding area contains funerary buildings, notably
the magnificent Alai-Darwaza Gate, a masterpiece of Indo-Muslim art and
two mosques, including the Quwwatu'l-Islam, the oldest in northern India.
The Taj Mahal, Agra (AH1)
An immense mausoleum of white marble built between 1631 and 1648 by order
of the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his favourite wife, the
Taj Mahal is one of the universally admired masterpieces of world heritage.
Ajanta Caves The first Buddhist
cave monuments at Ajanta date from the 1st and 2nd centuries B.C. During
the Gupta period (5th and 6th centuries A.D.), many more richly decorated
caves were added to the original group. The paintings and sculptures of
Ajanta are considered stunning works of Buddhist art.
The Meenakshi Temple, Madurai (AH43)
The Meenakshi Temple is located in Madurai, about 480 km from Chennai.
It is famous for the gigantic, profusely carved gateways, one of which
is 49 metres in height. The temple has exquisite sculptures, ornate pillars
and painted ceilings.
|
