Qutub Minar - the 2nd tallest minar in India
Mughals have been known for their motivational and astounding architecture and construction of huge complexes that strike a spell bound aura. Qutab Minar is one such structure that holds unique magnificence and aura and known for the grandeur. The structure was inspired by the very well-known Minaret of Jam, which is located in Afghanistan. The great Mughal ruler Qutub-ud-Din Aibak made up his mind to construct higher structure than the Minaret of Jam. The construction of Qutab Minar began in the year 1193. However, the structure remained incomplete due to death of Qutub-ud-Din Aibak, but quite soon; the work was re-started by his descendant Iltutmish and later put to completion by Firoz Shah Tughlaq. The Minaret when built was 72.5 meters high and was constructed as the victory tower.
Iltutmish was the son in law of Qutub-ud-din Aibak, and his tomb was constructed in 1235 AD. The entire structure is constructed from the red sandstone and it significantly shows up uniquely designed and constructed Arabic architectural patterns. The tomb originally lie under the dome, but at present consists of three mehrabs situated on the western side prominently used for the purpose of offering the prayers.
The Alai Minar is a 25 meters tall structure constructed by Mughal ruler Alaud-Din-Khlji. The purpose was to construct the Minar, which was double the height of Qutab Minar. However, the plan came to abrupt end after the sudden death of Alaud-Din-Khlji.
Quwwat-Ul-Islam or the Jami Masjid or Friday Mosque, was laid down for the construction by Mughal ruler Qutub-ud-din Aibak in the year 1192. The imprinted stones and slabs used for purpose of construction seem to have been taken from theremnants of 27 temples in Qila Rai Pithora. The elusive and intricate brocade carvings that decorate the structure appreciate and inspire the awe of tourists.
The 7.2 meters. high iron pillar, lying in the vicinity of the Quwwat-ul-Islam, is of the 4th century. It was originally thought to be constructed on the hillock for marking the respect to Lord Vishnu. In actuality, the pillar was transported to Delhi by Tomar king Anangpal. One of the key features of iron pillar is its resistance to the rust. Despite the very fact that it is open for more than 16 centuries, the pillar has anti rust properties.
Severe damage has been brought to the structure of Qutab Minar due to the earth quakes and lightning strikes. However, this has been repaired and renovated by the rulers on different occasions. During the reign of Firoz Shah, the top two floors of Minaret were damaged by lightning strikes and the construction and restoration work was undertaken by Firoz Shah to restore the stricture back.
In the year 1505, earthquake affected the structure of Minaret and the structure was repaired by Sikander Lodi. In the year 1794, the structure of Minaret was affected due to earthquake, which was then corrected by Major Smith. Qutab Minar has in its vicinity several prominent tourist spots which include The National Railway Museum and Hauz Khas.