This elegant monument is located at Sikandra, 4 kms away from the city of Agra. Construction of this mausoleum of Emperor Akbar, which was started by Akbar himself, was completed by his son Jehangir. The monument is a perfect coalescence of Hindu, Christian, Islamic, Buddhist and Jain motifs. The structure gives vital insight regarding the evolution of Mughal architecture- from the Humayun's tomb in Delhi to Akbar's Tomb in Sikandra finally to the Taj Mahal.
Structure of the Tomb
Three-storey-minarets, built in red sandstone and replete with exquisite inlay work, rise from the four corners of the tomb. The mausoleum is flanked by a beautiful garden. The Baradi palace in the gardens was built by Sikander Lodhi. A paved causeway leads to the five-storied tomb, which is in the shape of a truncated pyramid. The unique square design of the main tomb remains unrivalled by all other Mughal buildings.
Design and Architecture
Ground Floor
All the four sides, except the middle of the southern side, have spacious cloisters which are divided by massive piers and arches. The centre of the southern side is adorned with a vestibule, which has been blazoned with exquisite carvings, splendid paintings and inlay work in geometric and floral designs. The tombstone of Akbar lies in the middle of this room. Akbar's daughters, Shakrul Nisha Begum and Aram Bano are also entombed in this floor.
Rest of the Tomb
Each side of the second storey has an arcaded verandah consisting of 23 bays. The combination of ornamented arches and square pillars is quite a unique feature. In contrast, the third and fourth storeys are smaller and have a similar arrangement of arches supported on pillars with chhatris attached on th exteriors of each facade. While the lower stories are built in red sandstone, the topmost storey is a complete structure of white marble.
