GOL GUMBAZ - The most important attraction of Bijapur is Gol Gumbaz, the largest dome in the world. The dome dominates of the entire area by its sheer size. With a diameter of 37 metres and height of 51 metres, the entire structure is raised on # mts thick wall. The commemorative plaque of Muhammad Adil Shah (1627-56) is placed under the dome. Without any pillar for support, the dome is an engineering marvel. The acoustical echos the slightest whisper over several times. The structure also has a mosque, guesthouses and a drum house.
IBRAHIM ROZA - The most impressive structure in Bijapur is the Ibrahim Roza and the associated mosque. Tomb of the famous Adil Shahi Sultan Ibrahim II (1580-1627), the structure has attracted lavish praises of the art historians and common tourists alike. Referred as ”the Taj Mahal of the Deccan”, the monument is built to perfection and with unstinting technical care and unparallel skilled artistry. The tomb has remarkable proportionate with elegant cupolas and slender minarets. The parapets cornices further add to the decorative touches.
JAMA MASJID - Built in 1686, under Adil Shah I, the Jama Masjid of Bijapur is a sober and massive stately structure. The huge onion shaped dome of the Masjid rests on the beams of a majestic hall, divided into 45 compartments. The Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb added corridors on the northern and southern sides and a gateway on the eastern side.
GAGAN MAHAL - Gagan Mahal, built by Adil Shah I (1561), is a palace-cum-audience hall. The central arch of Gagan Mahal is the tallest and widest in entire Bijapur. Mostly in ruins, the structure is still magnificent and impressive and is now part of a beautiful park.
SAT MANZIL -Sat Manzil or the seven-storeyed tower, located near the Gagan Mahal is also in ruins. Originally a watchtower it overlooks the moat girdling, the bastions, and the ramparts of the citadel.
JALA MANZIL - Close to the Sat Manzil, Jal Manzil (water palace), a small structure is located. It is set in a part of the zenana enclosure and a tank.
TAJ BAWDI - Close to the Roza is the Taj Bawdi, built in memory of his wife by Ibrahim II. Two octagonal towers flank the massive gateway which leads to the water tank which is a great relief during summer months.
MEHTAR MAHAL -Mehtar Mahal, a small but exquisite structure, is on the way to the old city. Heavily influenced by the Indo-Saracenic style, this ornate structure has brackets supporting the balconies and impressive fence work recalling the splendours of Italian Quattrocento.
MALIK-E-MAIDAN - Malik-e-Maidan (monarch of the plains) canon, is one of the unusual attration od Bijapur. Placed on the city walls, it is among the the largest bell-metal canons in the world. The canon weighs 5,500 kgs and is 4.5 mts in length. Mounted by Muhammad Adil Shah at its present position, the canon remain cool even in summers.
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