6 Interesting Facts About Humayun's Tomb You Probably Didn't Know

Humayun's Tomb is one of Delhi's most iconic landmarks, and for good reason. It's not just a source of pride for the city but a symbol of its rich heritage. Nestled in the heart of Delhi, this 16th-century Mughal monument attracts thousands of tourists and has been featured in numerous iconic films. While many admire its stunning architecture, there's more to Humayun's Tomb than meets the eye. If you're a history enthusiast, get ready to uncover six fascinating facts about this incredible monument that will leave you intrigued. Read on to find out!

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Here Are 6 Interesting Facts About Humayun's Tomb:

1. It Was India's First Garden Tomb

Did you know Humayun's Tomb was one of India's first garden tombs? It was one of the first to introduce Persian-style charbagh gardens to the country. This unique layout includes pathways, flowing water channels and symmetrical flower beds. This style further influenced the construction of other Mughal architectural monuments.

2. It Was Commissioned By A Woman

Humayun's Tomb was commissioned by Humayun's first wife and chief consort, Empress Bega Begum, in 1565. This was almost a decade after his death. She played a key role in its planning and even personally supervised its construction, showing the powerful role Mughal women often held behind the scenes.

3. It Inspired The Taj Mahal

We all admire the beauty of the Taj Mahal, but it was actually inspired by Humayun's Tomb. The use of red sandstone, white marble, and the charbagh layout - all of these elements are also incorporated into the Taj Mahal, which Shah Jahan created as a tribute to Mumtaz Mahal.

4. It Serves As A Burial Site For Other Members Of The Mughal Family

Humayun's Tomb isn't just his final resting place but also that of several others in the royal family. Known as the 'Dormitory of the Mughals', the complex houses the graves of other Mughal royals, including Humayun's wives, sons and descendants. The exact number is not known but it was considered a prestigious burial ground for the dynasty.

5. It Was Restored By The British

Another interesting fact about the monument is that it was restored by the British. They cleared the lush Mughal gardens and turned the space into a more 'English-style' park during their rule. It wasn't until the 20th century that efforts began to restore the site to its original design. So, what you see today is actually a result of multiple restorations.

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6. It Looks Even More Stunning At Sunrise And Sunset

Though thousands visit it daily, many miss the tomb's serene charm during the golden hours. The red sandstone glows under the soft morning or evening light, casting dramatic shadows. If you're a photographer, you're sure to get some stunning shots.

Were you aware of these facts about Humayun's Tomb? Share with us in the comments below!