List of Architectural Marvels built by Mughal Emperors In Delhi

Delhi, The Capital Of India, is brimming with historical monuments built by Mughal emperors, that stand as testaments to its rich cultural heritage. Delhi boasts a rich history & steeped with several remarkable Architectural Marvels built by Mughals, showcasing architectural styles and artistic achievements of Mughal dynasty. The Mughal dynasty was founded by Babur, came to power in India in 1526.

Some these magnificent Mughal structures and sites are Red Fort, Humayun’s Tomb, Jama Masjid and Chandini chowk which has being witnessed over the centuries. Each of these historical landmark tells a story of India’s past & culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about Delhi’s historical sites built by Mughals, here is a handpicked list of Architectural Marvels built by Mughal emperors in Delhi that you should see. Let’s explore it.

Forts

Red Fort (Lal Qila):

Red Fort (Lal Qila), is one of Delhi’s most iconic landmarks & UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century (1638–1648), located in Chandni Chowk, Old Delhi.The Red Fort was the main residence of Mughal emperors for around 200 years. Every year on independence day Prime Minister hoists the Tricolour and addresses the nation from the main gate of Red Fort.

Key Features: The Red Fort is constructed with vibrant red sandstone walls & grand architecture, including the Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), the stunning Shahi Mahal (Royal Palace), museum, garden & imperial apartments

Purana Quila (Old Fort):

Purana Quila is one of the most captivating historical place and oldest fort in Delhi built by the second Mughal Emperor Humayun and Sher Shah Suri in 16th century (1533-1545), located in Mathura Road, near Delhi Zoo. Purana Qila is believed to be built on the site of the ancient city of Indraprastha, surrounded by a wide moat, which was connected to the Yamuna River.

Key Features: The old Fort has three impressive & massive gateways: the Humayun Darwaza (South Gate), Bara Darwaza (Big Gate), and Talaqi Darwaza (Forbidden Gate), built with red sandstone & adorned with marble and tilework. It is a unique blend of Afghan, Mughal & Indian architectural styles.

Tombs

Humayun’s Tomb:

Humayun’s Tomb is tomb of Mughal Emperor Humayun & a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by Hamida Banu Begum in 16th century Located in Nizamuddin East, Delhi.

Key Features: It is surrounded by a large Persian-style garden and water channels with a large central dome & intricate detailing. Humayun’s Tomb is recognized as the first garden-tomb on the Indian subcontinent, influenced by both Persian & Mughal architecture, which is considered as a precursor to the Taj Mahal. 

Safdarjung Tomb:

Safdarjung tomb is a sandstone and marble mausoleum in Delhi, dedicated to Nawab Safdarjung, the Prime Minister of the Mughal Empire, built by Shuja-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Oudh in 18th century (1754), located near Safdarjung Road & Aurobindo Marg, Delhi.

Key Features: This elegant mausoleum is made of sandstone and marble, with a decorative carvings, large central dome, and a surrounding garden. Safdarjung tomb is also known as, “Safdarjung Ka Maqbara”. It is known for its Mughal architectural style, which combines Ottoman Turkish, Persian & Indian elements.

Mosques

Jama Masjid: 

Jama Masjid is one of the largest & most iconic mosques in India built by Shah Jahan in the 17th century (around 1644–1656), located in Old Delhi. The mosque is a major religious landmark & stands as a symbol of Mughal architectural grandeur and cultural heritage attracting both worshippers and tourists.

Key Features: This elegant mosques is made of red sandstone and white marble, features three grand domes, four minarets, and an expansive courtyard. It is known for its Mughal architecture, & a key religious site for Muslims, hosting large prayers like Friday & Eid prayers.

Moti Masjid: 

The Moti Masjid is a beautiful & historic mosque, also known as the Pearl Mosque,  built by Emperor Aurangzeb in the 17th century (around 1659–1660), located in Red Fort, Delhi. Moti Masjid was designed as a small private mosque for the personal use of the Mughal emperors and their royal family.

Key Features: This beautiful mosques is made of white marble, features three domes, floral carvings and delicate calligraphy. The mosque is renowned for its serene design & elegant Mughal architectural beauty.

Market

Chandni Chowk: 

Chandni Chowk is one of the oldest and busiest bustling market areas in the heart of Old Delhi established by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 17th century, located in Old Delhi. It was once a grand imperial route for Mughal processions & a home to historical landmarks like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Gurudwara Sis Ganj Sahib, and Sarai Shahji. Chandni Chowk is also known as “Silver Street” or “The Moonlight Square”.

Key features: Chandni Chowk is a Shopping Destination for both locals and tourists, known for its vibrant street markets, offering everything from traditional clothes to jewellery, spices to books, antiques to electronics and street food including parathas, jalebi, chaat, and rabri. “Chandni Chowk ki galiyan” (The narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk), highlighting the maze of narrow, bustling streets & vibrant atmosphere that capture the essence of Delhi’s rich history and culture.