Encyclopedia of India–China Cultural Contacts v2.c11.54

v2.c11.54

From Akbar to Shah Jahan, generations of Mughal emperors indulged in architecture. The wealth and power of the empire and interest and aesthetic taste of rulers jointly contributed to the prosperity of Mughal architecture art. Humayun Tomb in east Delhi was the most important master work of early Mughal architecture. Persian architect Milak Mirza Gyasi was responsible for the design of the tomb, giving it a Persian style. The stately and primitive tomb was located in the centre of a quiet and secluded square garden and it was the first Indian garden tomb, laying the foundation for the building of Taj Mahal. In 1565, Akbar, son of Humayun, started to build Agra Fort. It was not only a grand palace but also an invulnerable military stronghold. It was built using red sandstone, and is commonly known as Agra Red Fort. Outside the wall, there is the tower, horn tower, turret, battlement, with moat 10 mt wide surrounding it, and inside the castle, there were hundreds of pavilions built with red sandstone.