The Taj Mahal is probably the most instantly recognisable and famous building in the world. It is located on the banks of the River Yamuna in the Indian city of Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh. It was built as a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal, the beloved wife of the fifth Mughal emperor Shah Jahan. It also houses the tomb of Shah Jahan as well.

Shah Jahan commissioned the building of the mausoleum in 1631 and it was completed in 1648. Work continued for a further five years on other parts of the complex. The design traditions of Indo-Islamic and Mughal architecture are incorporated in the building complex. The mausoleum is built in white marble inlaid with semi-precious stones whilst red sandstone was used for the other building which was consistent with Mughal era buildings of the time. Construction was led by the emperor’s court architect, Usted Ahmad Lahori. Halso constructed the Red Fort in Delhi and the new imperial city of Shahjahanabad.