moti masjid (pearl mosque), agra fort

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Moti Masjid (Pearl mosque)

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IntroductionThe era of the famous Mughal emperor Shah Jahan, a connoisseur of art and architecture marked as one of the significant period in the history of creation of some the most famous architectural wonders in India.

One such architectural delight is the Moti Masjid in Agra. The structure is built of pure white marbles that gives it a shiny white velvety look similar to that of pearls. Thus it was named as Moti Masjid as "Moti" means "Pearl".

Situated inside the compound of the famous Agra Fort in the vicinity of river Yamuna, this structure no doubt is a treat to the eyes

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PurposeIt was built as a place of worship for the royal members of the court. The mosque built between 1648 and 1654 is situated to the right of the Diwan-E-Aam or the hall where the Emperor held darbar for the common man.

The architectural features of the Mosque bear remarkable resemblance to that of the St. Basils Cathedral in Moscow.

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Front Elevation

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The three domes of the mosque built of white marbles, resting on the red sandstone walls looks magnificent and one can observe the splendid symmetrical design that is formed.

Along the parapet, a series of domed kiosks are built that are designed after Hindu architecture. (Supported by piers and lobed arches, seven bays are there that are divided into aisles below)

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Plan

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There are three gates to the mosque, the main and largest entrance being the one in the eastern side as also the most beautiful one. The other two subsidiary gates are on the northern and southern sides.

In the centre of the court of the mosque, a marble tank is situated. The prayer chamber is placed on the western side while the northern, eastern and southern sides are surrounded by arcaded cloisters with twelve sided pillars and beautifully cusped arches.

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Prayer Hall

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An arcade of seven arches is there in the prayer chamber. A total of twenty-one bays are there of which only three have vaulted soffits.

The western wall has an inlaid mirhab that is beautifully carved with six niches corresponding to the arches. The main prayer chamber has latticework screen made of marble on either side to separate the portions from the main chamber hall. These portions were used by women to offer their prayers.

Above the parapet there are seven chatris beautifully designed and square in shape with an octagonal tower with domed shape marble structures at each corner.

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Entrance courtyard

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Arches and three square chatris crowning the gates give them a royal look. The main gateways are built of red sandstone exterior and marble interior and can be approached by two staircases.

While near the tank is situated and a sundial made on an octagonal marble pillar standing in one corner gives quite an interesting and intriguing look.

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Details

Prayer Hall

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Entrance

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Prayer hall

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Exterior view

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Thank you!