1. HUMAYUN TOMB ( Mausoleum of Mughal Emperor Humayun )
Humayun died in 1556, and his widow Hamida Banu Begam, also known as Haji Begam, commenced the construction of his tomb in 1569, fourteen years after his death. It is the first distinct example of proper Mughal style, which was inspired by Persian architecture. It is well known that Humayun picked up the principles of Persian architecture during his exile, and he himself is likely to have planned the tomb, although there is no record to that effect. The tomb was constructed at a cost of 15 lakh rupees (1.5 million), in those days ..!
Mirak Mirza Ghiyath, a Persian, was the architect employed by Haji Begam for this work.
The tomb proper stands in the centre of a square garden, divided into four main parterres by causeways (charbagh), in the centre of which ran shallow water-channels. The high rubble built enclosure is entered through two lofty double-leveled gateways on the west and south. A baradari (pavilion) occupies the centre of the eastern wall and a hammam (bath chamber) in the centre of the northern wall.
The square red sandstone double storied structure of the mausoleum with chamfered corners rises from a 7-m. high square terrace, raised over a series of cells, which are accessible through, arches on each side. The grave proper in the centre of this cell-complex is reached by a passage on the south. The octagonal central chamber contains the cenotaph, and the diagonal sides lead to corner-chambers which house the graves of other members of the royal family. Several rulers of the Mughal dynasty lie buried here. Bahadur Shah Zafar had taken refuge in this tomb with three princes during the first war of Independence (AD 1857).
3. SAFDARJUNG TOMB ( Mausoleum of Emperor Safdarjung )
Safdarjung's Tomb is the last enclosed garden tomb in Delhi in the tradition of Humayun's Tomb, though it if far less grand in scale. It was built in 1753- 54 as mausoleum of Safdarjung, the viceroy of Awadh under the Mughal Emperor, Mohammed Shah. It has several smaller pavilions with evocative names like Jangli Mahal, (Palace in the Woods), Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) and Badshah Pasand (King's Favorite).
Safdarjung's tomb represents the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture. The tomb of Safdarjung was built in red sandstone and buff stone. There are two graves here, one of Safdarjung and the other apparently his wife's. The square central chamber of the mausoleum is surrounded by eight rooms all around. All the apartments, except the corner ones are rectangular in shape, the corner ones being octagonal. The dome of the tomb rises from a sixteen-sided base. On either side of the Safdarjung tomb are beautiful pavilions, known as "Moti Mahal" or the pearl palace, "Jangli Mahal" or the sylvan palace and "Badshah Pasand" or the emperor's favorite.
The complex also has a madarsa. The archaeological Survey of India maintains a library over the main gateway.
6. INDIA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE (IIC)
IIC has been a favorite hangout of the old school of Indian intellectuals. This premium institution is well known for the intellectual seminars and events. the India International Centre is a non-government institution widely regarded as a place where statesmen, diplomats, policy makers, intellectuals, scientists, jurists, writers, artists and members of civil society meet to initiate the exchange of new ideas and knowledge in the spirit of international cooperation. Members usually give talks and hold exhibitions in its beautiful premises, relax or chat in its common rooms over steaming cups of tea and coffee. The center has many galleries, which are quite sought after by artists. The premises are open to the public for any event or exhibition but to use library services and other facilities, you need to be a member. India International Center is a reputed cultural center, which has been hosting national and international events, film screening, and talks for decades
The Centre is equally famous for its gracious hospitality, comfortable and personalized service with modestly priced meals. Beautiful gardens, with shady trees and fountains, a bar, a tea lounge and several refreshment areas are popular venues for members to meet or entertain guests .
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