Delhi is home to numerous historic sites spanning colossal forts to stunning mausoleums that depict the magnificence of various dynasties that once ruled over India. These locations serve as living reminders of their reign.
One of the most beloved monuments here is Humayun’s Tomb. As one of the first garden tombs in India, its design inspired many other structures like Taj Mahal.
Humayun’s Tomb
Humayun, the second Mughal Emperor, had his mausoleum constructed 14 years after his death by his widow Biga Begum as well as using it to inter his family members and use as burial space for themselves. It has become the central site for Mughal history as it serves as both a precursor and final resting place of his body.
The octagonal structure exhibits strong Persian influence and was an architectural feat at its time, being a first on Indian subcontinent and inspiring major architectural innovations. Furthermore, its construction helped cement Mughals’ position as one of the dominant political and cultural forces during that era; drawing visitors from across India; it later served as both burial place and kitchen garden.
Feroz Shah Kotla
Feroz Shah Tughlaq’s 14th century palace complex stands as an embodiment of Michel Foucault’s notion of heterotopia – where multiple meanings coexist without contradiction – as evidenced by its current inhabitants: several jinn who inhabit its spaces. These presences embody Foucault’s theory that spaces where multiple meanings coexist without contradiction.
At the core of these ruins is a circular baoli, commonly referred to as Asokan Pillar in local parlance, originally built by Mauryan Emperor Ashoka in Ambala and later transported by Feroz Shah Tughlaq and brought here. This monolithic stone bears Pali and Prakarth inscriptions.
Feroz Shah Kotla was home to a royal palace, mosque, water tank and other structures. According to legend, its central pillar attracts an abundance of jinn who accept written wishes left behind by visitors.
Agrasen ki Baoli
Connaught Place in New Delhi hides an architectural treasure often overshadowed by modern high-rises: Agrasen Ki Baoli is an ancient stepwell that stands as an impressive testament to ancient India’s architects and engineers. Also referred to as Chandi-ka-Tila, its underground marvel consists of intricately carved steps leading down to an underground water reservoir.
There is no clear record of when and by whom this impressive monument was originally erected, though its reconstruction dates back to Tughlaq and Lodhi Dynasties.
Today, this historical monument is highly popular with tourists for its haunted atmosphere and intricate carvings on its stairs leading down to its water reservoir. Many visitors report experiencing paranormal presence here – making this attraction one of Delhi’s must-visit spots! Ghost hunting tourists must experience it firsthand!
India Gate
India Gate, one of Delhi’s most beloved historical landmarks, stands as a tribute to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation. Also referred to as All-India War Memorial or Delhi Memorial by Edwin Lutyens.
The arch of this monument resembles an obelisk and bears INDIA written on both sides. Beneath its arch is a black marble cenotaph featuring an inverted rifle and soldier’s helmet, as well as undying flames all around.
This national monument serves to inspire the nation and fight for its freedom, frequently being visited by both the Prime Minister and Indian soldiers on Republic Day. Furthermore, this area makes an excellent location for filming purposes.
Coronation Memorial
Delhi has long been home to various dynasties and has left behind monumental structures that tell of its past. One such monument is the Coronation Memorial where British Raj held durbars and bestowed Kaisar-i-Hind medals upon Indian governors; here one can also find a statue of George V dressed in coronation robes as seen during the 1911 Durbar.
This park also houses the ruins of Rai Pithora, built by Prithviraj Chauhan in 1572 and notable for its medical architectural structure, dating back to Prithviraj Chauhan himself. Not as dramatic as Cape Town or Charlottesville protests against Cecil Rhodes statue or Robert Edward Lee memorial statue respectively, this site represents more subtle forms of resistance against imperial power.
