Architecture, Mughal Empire

Mughal architecture is the style of architecture which developed in the Mughal Empire during the 16th–18th centuries throughout the ever-changing extent of their empire in South Asia. It developed from the architectural styles of earlier Indo-Islamic architecture and from Iranian and Central Asian architectural traditions, particularly the Timurid architecture. It also further incorporated and syncretized influences from wider Indian architecture, especially during the reign of Akbar (r. 1556–1605). Mughal buildings have a uniform pattern of structure and character, including large bulbous domes, slender minarets at the corners, massive halls, large vaulted gateways, and delicate ornamentation. Examples of the style are found mainly in modern-day India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan. The Mughal dynasty was established after the victory of Babur at Panipat in 1526. During his five-year reign, Babur took considerable interest in erecting buildings, though few have survived. His grandson Akbar commissioned extensive construction projects, and Mughal architectural style developed significantly during his reign. Among his accomplishments were Agra Fort and the fort-city of Fatehpur Sikri, which includes the Buland Darwaza. Akbar's son Jahangir commissioned the Shalimar Gardens of Srinagar. Mughal architecture reached its zenith during the reign of Shah Jahan, who constructed the Taj Mahal, the Jama Masjid of Delhi, the Shalimar Gardens of Lahore, and renovated the Lahore Fort. High-ranking officials also constructed major monuments, as with the example of the Wazir Khan Mosque. The last of the great Mughal patrons was Aurangzeb, who commissioned the Badshahi Mosque, Bibi Ka Maqbara, Moti Masjid, among others. The style continued into 18th century but went into a decline, although it influenced regional and later architectural traditions, notably the Indo-Saracenic architecture during colonial period.