1. The Taj Mahal

4. There is quite a story behind the construction of the striking building which came to be known as the Taj palace. In 1631 when Shah Jahan’s third wife Mumtaz Mahal died giving birth to his fourteenth child, the Emperor was grief stricken. The Emperor decided to create a structure that would describe his love for his late wife and that would be an inspiration for the lovers throughout the world. Taj Mahal sits in the middle of a 300- meter garden which took five years to complete. There are raised pathways to walk on in the garden, flowerbed with beautiful seasonal flowers and a marble water tank. The reflecting pool on the north side gives a phenomenal reflection of the kingdom.

5. This magnificent mausoleum is a memorial for the romantic ruler Shah Jahan’s great love, Mumtaz Mahal.

7. The intricate inlaid decorations made of precious stones are writings from the Koran. This is because images of animals and humans are not allowed in Islamic art.

8. Women in saris in front of the Taj Mahal The vivid colours of the women's saris contrast with the serene white marble of the Taj Mahal.

9. The enormous marble-clad building stands on a gigantic marble platform. The towers at each of the four corners lean slightly outwards so that they won’t fall onto the mausoleum in the event of an earthquake.

15. Examine the intricate patterned designs that embellish the interior of the Taj Mahal.

17. If you could design a palace for someone you care about, what would it look like?

18. Commissioned (and probably designed) by: Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan Tip: Under www.taj-mahal.net you can take a virtual tour of this fascinating building and get an idea of the unbelievable workmanship! http://www.taj-mahal.net/augEng/main_screen.htmwww.taj-mahal.net http://www.taj-mahal.net/augEng/main_screen.htm

20. Gardens that surround the Taj Mahal design.

22. Many different renderings have been done of this magnificent Palace.

25. The gardens that surround the Taj Mahal were supposed to represent the Gardens of Paradise, but sadly and English governor replaced the fragrant flowers with lawns. What a shame!

26. The image above features a paper sculpture of the Taj Mahal!

30. The dome of the Taj Mahal is 213 feet in height.