Humayun Tomb
Built by the wife of Humayun, Haji Begum
in the mid 16th century, this red sand stone structure is
considered to be the predecessor of Taj Mahal. The structure is
one of the best example of Mughal Architecture. Humayun's wife is
also buried in the red and white sandstone, black and yellow
marble tomb. The entry in the complex is free on Fridays
otherwise a nominal fees of .50 ps is charged
The high rubble built enclosure is entered through two lofty
double-storeyed 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 northern wall. The lofty
mausoleum is in the centre of the enclosure and rises from a
podium faced with series of cells having arched openings.
The central octagonal chamber contains the cenotaph, encompassed
by octagonal chambers at the diagonals and arched lobbies on the
side. Their openings are closed with perforated screens. Three
arches dominate each side, the central one being the highest.
This plan is repeated on the second storey too. The roof
surmounted by a double dome (42.5m) of marble has pillared kiosks
(Chhatris) placed around it. 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 Independence (AD
1857).
On the southwestern side of the Humayon Tomb is located Barber's
Tomb (Nai-ka-Gumbad), which stands on a raised platform, reached
by seven steps from the south. The building is square on plan and
consists of a signal compartment covered with a double-dome.
