Gaze in wonder at this magnificent mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah in Bijapur. An aquestic and architectural wonder, it houses the world's second largest dome, unsupported by pillars. Built in 1659, its most arresting features are the seven storied octagonal pillars at the four corners and the heavy bracketed cornice below the parapet. The Gol Gumbaz is an enormous cube of stone and masony, capped by gigantic domes. The amazing whispering gallery, which distinctly echos the fantiest whisper eleven times, is an unforgettable experience.
Said to have inspired the Taj Mahal in Agra, this palatial Mosque and tomb in Bijapur is very impressive. However, the jewels of Adil Shah Architecture is the Jamia Masjid with its graceful arches, aisles halls, intricate designs and the large crowning onion dome. What makes it even more special is the priceless Koran written in letters of gold that is carefully preserved here. Another nearby attraction is the 500 year old Baobab tree (Adansonia Bigibata) brought from South Africa. Legend has it that during the construction of the Ibrahim Roza, labourers ate their food and rested under the shade of this benign tree. Even after surviving all these centuries, the tree still bares fruits.
This is a 55 ton cannon perched on a platform. The head of the cannon is fashioned into the shape of a lion whose jaws are trying to devor an elephant. Legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, it will come true.
An ornamental gateway, leading to a mosque and garden, Methar Mahal is a smalll, beautiful monument built by Ibrahim Adil Shah.
Built by Ali Adil Shah1 in 1561 to serve the dual purpose of royal residence and a durbar hall.
This was once a water pavilion surrounded by secluded courts and garden
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The incomplete mausoleum of Ali Adil Shah II with 12 graceful arches.
A 24 m high , 16th Century watch tower, built on high ground from which one can get a good view of the city and plains.
A water tank that commemorates Taj Sultana, the wife of Ibrahim Adil Shah II. The front is made up of a majestic arch flanked by two octagonal towers .
