The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Qutb Archaeological Complex is an intriguing landmark encased in several layers of history, located in Mehrauli, which is the site of the oldest of seven cities of Delhi, Lal Kot. A visit to the 12th-century Qutb Minar, a 238 foot (73-meter) tall minaret made up of red brick and light sandstone, is considered to be among the best things to do in Delhi. But there’s more a lot more eye-candy in the manicured lawns that make up an ensemble of ruined monuments around Qutub Minar, Delhi.

Art carved in stone

The Qutb Minar may be one of the most familiar sights of the city, but it is only at close quarters that its real beauty becomes apparent. Angular bands on the fluted, five storey- structure add to the illusion of height. Honeycomb sculptures add delicacy to the balconies. Islamic and Indian influences blend in a stone canvas of intertwined vines, calligraphy, geometric motifs and floral designs. Stopping by the majestic site on a Delhi city tour is a treat not just for history buffs, but also lovers of artistic heritage.

Tomb of opulence

Hidden from plain view is the simple square-shaped sandstone tomb of Iltutmish, but only a curious mind will venture inside to be rewarded by overwhelming ornamentation. Walls, niches and the Mihrab (prayer niche facing Mecca) are laden with calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran, exquisite floral patterns and geometric embellishments, as well as lotus flowers and bells on chains. A richly decorated marble cenotaph dominates the chamber, now open to the sky.

India’s oldest mosque

Standing in the shadow of the Qutb Minar is the 12th-century Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, believed to be one of the oldest mosques in India. Its southern gateway, Alai Darwaza, opens into the first true dome in India. A vision in white marble and red sandstone, the structure is crammed with elaborate carvings of flowers, lotus buds and bells in typical Sultanate architectural style. Shadows created by the latticed windows are enough to add sparkle to the most jaded of eyes.

Repurposed architectural features

Wandering around the complex, one stumbles upon the remains of the colonnades that surround the mosque’s open courtyard and the prayer hall. These pillars, ceilings and stones in these colonnades are said to have been taken from Hindu and Jain temples. The presence of deities, mythical creatures and typical Hindu decorative elements add an unusual appeal to the architectural potpourri.

Unsolved mystery

The most fascinating object in the complex is a ceremonial iron pillar dating back to the 4th-5th century, inscribed with an ancient Sanskrit eulogy to a revered Hindu ruler. Uprooted from a Hindu temple and installed here by Iltutmish as a symbol of authority, the pillar is shrouded in mystery for being rust-resistant since 2000 years.

Unfinished business

In the 14th-century, Alauddin Khilji commissioned a bigger, better minaret, which is called the Alai Minar. Had the construction continued, it would probably have surpassed the Qutb Minar in splendour, but it never progressed beyond a stub that looks like a giant anthill! And that is the most surprising discovery of a Delhi day tour to the Qutb….
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