Mughal Architecture

Although India can refer to a proud and very multifaceted history of architecture - with the likes of early and later Hindu and Buddhist temples, Muslim mosques and palaces, and to some degree even the achievements of colonial architecture - the creations of the Mughals probably outshine them all - not least because one of their finest pieces of art ranks amongst the seven world-wonders. The following essay will give an overview over Mughal architecture and hopefully help understanding the ideas behind it. In the very beginning, it explains the origins of the Mughal dynasty. It focuses in further detail on the four emperors Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan and Aurangzeb, for they are considered the most important forces in terms of changing the landscape of Mughal India. The resume will provide some overall thoughts and the results of the analysis of the emperors' different styles in (urban) planning, building, decorating and patronizing.