By Priyanka Roshan | July 3, 2025
From ancient cathedrals to modern museums, the world is full of stunning architecture—but Time Out recently named the Taj Mahal in Agra, India, the world’s most beautiful building for its elegance and emotional depth.
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Commissioned by Shah Jahan in 1632, the Taj Mahal took 22 years to build. Crafted by artisans from India, Persia, and Europe, it stands as a timeless tribute to love, blending diverse architectural styles.
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Bathed in light, the Taj Mahal changes colour throughout the day—soft pink at sunrise, ivory in daylight, and golden under the moon. Set against the Yamuna River, its reflection adds to the illusion of a floating dream.
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The intricate inlay designs, graceful domes, and precisely positioned minarets exemplify the height of Mughal artistry. Here are 10 fascinating facts about the Taj Mahal:
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Image: Canva
The monument transforms its appearance depending on the time of day and light conditions, creating a magical visual effect.
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Around 20,000 artisans and labourers worked on it, including experts in calligraphy, stone carving, and dome construction.
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The walls feature intricate inlays of 28 precious and semi-precious stones sourced from around the world.
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5. Earthquake-Ready Minarets
Each minaret leans slightly outward to protect the main dome in case of collapse during an earthquake.
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The closer you walk toward the entrance, the smaller the mausoleum appears—a clever trick of design.
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Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, the Taj Mahal is globally recognised for its cultural and historical value.
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Legend suggests Shah Jahan planned a mirror-image mausoleum in black marble, but it was never realised.
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Image: Canva
Drawing over 7 million visitors each year, the Taj Mahal remains a top destination for travellers from across the globe.
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