Humayun's tomb

Tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun in Delhi, India

Humayun's tomb is a complex of buildings of Mughal architecture in the Indian city of Delhi. It includes the main tomb of Emperor Humayun, as well as other tombs, mosques and other constructions. The complex has been considered by Unesco as a World Heritage Site since 1993, as it is one of the first examples of Mughal architectural art. It is also one of the best-preserved complexes.

Humayun's tomb is built of red sandstone to which decorative details made of black and white marble were added. Its structure is octagonal and the ceilings are profusely decorated with paintings. The central hall, two stories high, is flanked by four rooms, also octagonal. All the facades are symmetrical, as well as the whole of the building. Although previously some tombs had been built nestled in the middle of a garden, Humayun's tomb is the first that can be considered as a garden tomb. That is why it is considered the forerunner in style of the Taj Mahal.

The tomb was built by Emperor Humayun's main widow, Bega Begum, although the exact date of the start of construction is unknown. Some sources consider that the start date was 1574, nine years after the death of her husband. However, some manuscripts from the 18th century date the works to the year 1579. In this mausoleum are buried, in addition to Humayun, his main widow and his youngest wife as well as other Mughal dignitaries. At present, it is impossible to distinguish who owns each of the graves.