An architectural hallmark in the world, Taj Mahal is known as the eighth wonder in the world. The ceaseless labour of 20,000 workers led to the construction of this geometrical miracle in India. An exceptional exhibit of Piedra Dura (stone inlay work), the Taj Mahal displays three major elements of the Muslim decorative arts and architecture - the Ayatein (sayings) from the Q'uran, use of various geometrical shapes and a variety of plant forms and flowers dominant in the borders.

Situated on the banks of river Yamuna in Agra, the monument of Love - Taj Mahal - is a vivid poetry carved in marble. This enchanting mausoleum was constructed in 22 laborious years, starting from 1631 AD, in memory of the Empress Mumtaz Mahal, by his husband Mughal Emperor Shahjahan. It is believed that while on her deathbed Mumtaz Mahal conveyed her last wish to Shahjahan that he should build an unforgettable landmark in memory of their eternal love.

The design of Taj Mahal was finalised by the great architect Ustad Ahmad Lahauri. Amanat Khan Shirazi was the calligrapher of Taj Mahal, poet Ghyasuddin designed the verses on the tombstone, while Ismail Khan Afridi of Turkey made the domes. Muhammad Hanif planned out the structure of Masons. Taj Mahal is therefore an assimilation of many independent units - mosques, gardens, gateways, tombs and fountains.

The construction material was brought on a fleet of 1000 elephants from all over India and central Asia. Red sandstone was brought from Fatehpur Sikri, Jasper from Punjab, Jade and Crystal from China, Turquoise from Tibet, Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire from Sri Lanka, Coal and Cornelian from Arabia. The source country of diamonds is still obscure. All the 28 rare, semi precious and precious stones were used for the engravings done in the Taj Mahal.

It is said that after the completion of Taj Mahal, Shahjahan ordered the amputation of the hands and legs of all the workers making them physically disabled to carve out any other building in future. The intention behind this act was his desire to keep Taj Mahal as the most unique marble structure in the world.