Tomb of Itimad-ud-Daulah

One of the notable instances of the ideal fusion of native and Mughal architecture is the Itimad-ud-Daulah Tomb. The mausoleum is mainly constructed of white marble and features mosaic and lattice. The tomb is 21 metres high and has a 12-meter-tall, octagonal tower at each corner with a dome roof. Located in the heart of the Charbagh-style gardens, it is renowned for its excellent inlay work. Mosaics and semi-precious stones in white marble embellish the main room of the tomb. The tomb complex comprises a central hall where Mirza Ghiyas Beg and his wife Asmat Begum's tombs are located. A sandstone stairway leads to the first floor, where a beautiful pavilion with a pinnacled dome over it has an attractive oblong dome atop it. Persian inscriptions may be found on the ground floor's cenotaphs and walls. While the cenotaph inscriptions list the names and positions of those detained, the wall inscriptions contain passages from the Quran and other sacred writings. This structure is regarded as the Taj Mahal's primary source of inspiration. Because of this, it is referred to as the 'Baby Taj Mahal.' Despite their similarities, Itimad-Ud-tomb Daulah is considered a more delicate piece of art than the Taj Mahal because of its marble lattice screens and intricate carvings. This was the first mausoleum built along the Yamuna River's banks. The magnificent pietra dura (stone inlay) decoration of the tomb, which features images of cypresses, wine cups, and an incredible diversity of geometric arabesque, has also earned it its rightful fame. The jali screens installed in the arched niches are magnificent. Four small minarets surround the modest tomb construction. The entire building gives the appearance of being an enormously valuable thing.