Historically rich city Bijapur (or Vijayapura) is known for its Humongous medieval monument, which is an epitome of Deccan’s Islamic era. Kalyani Chalukyas laid foundations in this city during the 10th to 11th centuries. Later, it was followed by Yadhavas, Sultanate of Delhi, Bahamani rulers, Shah dynasty, Mughals, Nizams of Hyderabad, Marathas, and Britishers who added their bits and pieces to develop this town. But, Bijapur owes to the Shah dynasty rulers who made this place their capital from the 15th to 17th century and made way for beautiful Structures that have stood the test of times. Because of the architectural significance, it upholds. Bijapur is called the “Agra Of South India”.
Vijayapura is blessed with ancient monuments, mosques, palaces, mausoleums, tombs, and fortifications. Amongst those, Gol Gumbaz remains the most iconic structure of Bijapur. Just a glimpse of these magnificent structures in the city will take you back in time to medieval eras.
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Bijapur The Architectural Marvel Of Karnataka
Gol Gumbaz, Bijapur
Gol Gumbaz is a tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah, the seventh ruler of the Adil Shah empire. Yaqut of Dabul constructed this monument in the Deccan Indo Islamic style of architecture and completed it in 1656. Apparently, it took nearly 30 years to complete it. Gol Gumbaz derives its name from “Gol Gobadh” or “Gola Gummata” which literally means circle Circular dome. It has the largest dome in India with a diameter of 144 ft and it is the 2nd largest dome in the world. Along with Mohammed Adil Shah, this place is also home to the remains of his wives and daughters.
Ibrahim Rauza,Bijapur
Popularly known as “ The Taj Mahal of Deccan India” due to its resemblance to the actual one. Ibrahim Rauza or Roza is home to the remains of Adil Shah ruler Ibrahim and his wife Taj Sultana. Malik Sandal designed the Rouza in the Persian Islamic style of architecture and completed it in 1627. Laidback corridors, tall minarets, and decorated walls, with a mosque on right and tomb on left, make Ibrahim Rouza look great.
The Citadel or Fortress
The Citadel has a lofty stone wall and a deep moat filled with water to strengthen the defense system. In addition to that, this fortress houses the palaces, gardens, and durbar halls that belonged to Adil shah rulers. Bara Kaman, Gagan Mahal, Satmanzil, Jalamanzil, and Durbar Hall are some of the beautiful architectural marvels inside the fortress.
Gagan Mahal
Adil Shah 1 built the Gagan Mahal (Sky Palace) in the year 1561. This place was used as the residence of the royals, as well as Durbar or audience hall on the ground floor by the rulers. Gagan Mahal is famous for its majestic central arch and it is the tallest arch in and around the city.
Delicacies Of Bijapur
Vijayapura is also popular for mouth-watering local north Karnataka delicacies. Never miss a chance to have Akki Rotis or Jolada Roti with chutney powders, Kaipalya and Kalu Palya.
The list does not end here, there is so much to see and experience in the ancient and historic city of Bijapur. So, what are you waiting for, just pack your backpacks and revisit the history in its truest form?
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