Hyderabad is home to many historical attractions that are well worth seeing, such as Charminar – known for its four minarets that symbolize it and became one of its symbols – that stands as one of its main landmarks and symbolic features of this great city.
Makkah Masjid is another significant site near Charminar that stands out. Built by Qutb Shahi Sultans, this grand mosque was made even more significant due to its close proximity.
Qutb Shahi Tombs
Qutb Shahi Tombs are one of India’s most significant medieval necropolises. An archaeological park consisting of 40 mausoleums, 23 mosques, a hammam and various pavilions are being gradually restored by Aga Khan Development Network.
These tombs were designed by the kings of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty as a testament to their skill and imagination, reflecting Indian, Persian and Pathan architectural styles in one magnificent ensemble on raised platforms constructed with grey granite.
The tomb of Quli Qutub-ul-Mulk stands out among them all as an impressive structure with the tallest dome and houses seven other Sultans and their wives including Pem Mati and Tara Mati who provided classical dance entertainment to King Muhammad V during their performances at Hussain Sagar in 1562. Also included within its complex are Hussain Wali’s tomb – revered Sufi saint who helped construct Hussain Sagar – as well as Hussain Wali himself who also has his tomb within its complex housing his tomb complex contains all seven other Sultans as well as his wives including Pem Mati and Tara Mati sisters who performed classical dance performances while her sisters Pem and Tara Mati provided classical performances at King V’s performances at Hussain Sagar in 1562; also buried within is Hussain Wali who built Hussain Sagar in 1562 with its highest dome over all others!
Paigah Tombs
Paigah Tombs are architectural marvels and serve as a reminder of India’s once-mighty Hyderabad State that ruled its richest kingdom. Situated in Santosh nagar area of Hyderabad City, these tombs showcase an intricate blend of Asaf Jah and Rajput architecture with lime mortar jaalis and magnificent stucco carvings making an incredible sight to behold.
The Paigah Necropolis is home to the final resting places for generations of the noble Paigah family, founded by Abul Fateh Khan Tegh Jung (also known as Shams-ul-Umara or Sun Among Nobles). These individuals remained highly devoted to Nizams and often intermarried with them.
At first glance, the necropolis may appear dismal; however, closer inspection will reveal its exquisite design. Filled with exquisite carvings depicting botanical structures and marble tile-works. Funded by US Ambassador’s Fund for Cultural Preservation and administered by Aga Khan Trust for Culture.
Charminar
Charminar, one of Hyderabad’s iconic monuments and a tourist magnet, draws many visitors each year. Designed in Indo-Islamic style by Sultan Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah of Qutb Shahi Dynasty (1591), its famed structure draws many admirers.
There are various theories as to why such an impressive structure was constructed, the most popular being that an epidemic plague was spreading throughout Golkonda and killing thousands. When this occurred, Sultan Mohammad ordered prayers at one location with promises made that once this disease had passed he would build a mosque there as promised.
This square-shaped structure boasts four minarets that stand 56 metres high, along with intricate balconies and intricate detailing. This monument represents the architecture of its time; it stands next to a large mosque and close to Laad Bazaar (which sells bangles) and Pathargatti Boulevard, known for jewelry and pearls.
Sri Ram Chandra Temple
Vengi kings’ temple that dates back over 1000 years is one of the most picturesque locations in Hyderabad, surrounded by lush green hills that make its presence an absolute pleasure to experience.
Charminar, or Charkaman as it’s also known, stands as one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and was constructed over 425 years ago. On top is an over 400 year-old mosque constructed by Qutb Shahi dynasty when they had to leave Golconda fort due to a plague outbreak.
This 40 acre complex was designed in rare Indo-Saracenic architectural styles to house tombs of Paigahs who married Nizam’s daughters, as well as epitaphs commemorating their bravery. There’s also a library, museum and an extensive collection of keepsakes given as gifts by Europeans for display by Paigah tombs.
