. Gol Gumbaz

                                                      . Gol Gumbaz           

                                                                                                 

• Location: Bijapur (Vijayapura), Karnataka, India.
• Built By: Mohammed Adil Shah of the Adil Shahi Dynasty.
• Built In: 1656 CE.
• Purpose: Mausoleum of Sultan Mohammed Adil Shah.

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Architectural Features

• Dome:
  • The second-largest dome in the world (after St. Peter's Basilica in Rome).
  • Diameter: 44 meters (144 feet).
  • Built without any central support (an architectural marvel).
• Whispering Gallery:
  • A circular gallery inside the dome where even the faintest sound echoes up to 7 times.
  • Sounds can travel across the hall clearly due to its acoustic design.
• Main Structure:
  • Square-shaped with each side measuring 47.5 meters.
  • Supported by 8 massive pillars, creating a symmetrical layout.
• Tombs: Houses the tombs of Mohammed Adil Shah, his family, and his trusted servants.
• Exterior:
  • Simple yet massive, featuring arched doorways and towers at the four corners.
  • Each corner has a seven-story tower topped with a dome.

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Significance

• A masterpiece of Deccan Sultanate architecture.
• Represents the blend of Persian and Indian architectural styles.
• Known for its innovative acoustics and immense scale.

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Interesting Facts

• The dome’s whispering gallery is a major attraction for visitors.
• The structure is often referred to as the "Taj Mahal of South India" due to its grandeur.