While Hyderabad has many historical landmarks and cultural heritage monuments, the Charminar building is one of the most significant icons of the city. Hyderabad is the capital of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh and the monument was built in 1591, shortly after the city had become the capital. It was built by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and a legend surrounding it states that it was constructed due to a promise he had made to Allah. Tourists who visit India and stay in one of the five star hotels in Hyderabad have many landmarks, scenic wonders and entertainment options to fill their time, and a trip to Charminar is almost always on the top of the list.
The name of the building translates as the four towers, or mosques, of the four minarets. It is an amazing architectural spectacle and awes visitors from their first glimpse. It is a square monument with four sides measuring 20 meters. Each of the corners has a tall pointed minaret, which reach heights of over 48 meters. This means they can be seen from all over the city, and the building is one of its fundamental icons. There are winding staircases inside the minarets and when one reaches the top of them, they are provided with a spectacular panoramic view of the city. The building is slightly different in construction from the Taj Mahal due to the minarets being incorporated into the actual building.
Each of the four sides of the Charminar has giant arches that open into a beautiful plaza. These main thoroughfares were originally royal roads. The building was built from lime mortar and granite, which demonstrates its basis in Cazia architecture. The inside of the monument is as beautiful as its exterior and is well known for its graceful moldings and carvings. There is a tremendous amount of detail in the design, which gives the appearance of lace. At night it is illuminated and looks spectacular from great distances and up close.
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