Jama Masjid

The Jama Masjid's architecture and design are both fantastical in nature. Perhaps for this reason it has been compared to Baitul-Mamur, a mosque said to be in Jannah and decorated with pearls and rubies (heaven). For his beloved daughter Jahanara Begum's request, Emperor Shah Jahan built the Jama Masjid at a cost of Rs 5 lakhs. It took 5 years to complete and was finished in 1649 AD.

The name translates to 'Friday mosque,' located on an elevated platform reached by stairs. It has five arched doorways that open to a spacious courtyard where worshipers can congregate.

Three enormous sandstone domes may be recognised by their marble zigzag band roof the masjid. Jammat Khana Hall and Zenana Rauza, or the mausoleum of women from the royal household, are located on the right side of the mosque. Beautifully inlaid stones, like those on the Taj Mahal's gateway, are featured along the main prayer wall, adding an appropriately feminine touch. The shrine of Sheik Salim Chisti, the head of the Sulfi faith, is located inside the mosque complex.

The mausoleum is embellished with magnificent marble lattice screens. Beautiful inlaid geometric designs coloured tiles, and inscriptions adorn Jama Masjid. The building has a symmetrical appearance and a restrained beauty appropriate to its religious function. The wide red sandstone steps lead to entrances on the mosque's north, east, and south sides. The tower has five floors, each of which has a projecting balcony. Red sandstones are used to construct the first three storeys; marble is used for the fourth, and sandstone is used once more for the fifth. The Jama Masjid is located atop a raised podium. The three magnificent sandstone domes, which are all coated in marble, enhance the mosque's splendour. Sacred calligraphy, inscriptions, and coloured tiles adorn the walls. The 54-meter-high Buland Darwaza, also known as the Gate of Victory, was constructed to celebrate Akbar's victory in Gujarat and serves as the mosque's primary entrance. Stunning flights of steps lead up to this majestic entryway. The prayer hall is capped by two white-and-red-striped minarets that face west toward Mecca inside the vast courtyard. The Badshahi Darwaza, another magnificent gate, is renowned for its magnificence and elegance. This location is packed with worshippers who gather for Namaaz every Friday and on holy days. One of Agra's most notable landmarks is the mosque. Exploring the bustling bazaars that spread below the mosque is a helpful reference point. Since the Mughal era, this street bazaar has existed and is best explored on foot. Be sure to look for the pehta-wallahs, the makers of the most well-known pumpkin-based treats in Agra, in front of the complex on the northeast side. The Jama Masjid has harmonious dimensions, and the courtyard is surrounded by cloisters on three sides and a prayer hall on the west. In the middle of the courtyard is a fountain with four pavilions. The monument appears excellent overall.