Qutub Shahi Tombs

Qutb Shahi Tomb is one of the most iconic Islamic sites that hold the prominence of being the oldest monument in Hyderabad. With a magnificent blend of Indian and Persian architectural styles, these tombs are revered as one of the most important historical sites in India. These tombs were laid as a solemn reminder of the glory and grandeur of Golconda and the great kings who were buried over here.

They are also said to form a golden triangle with Golconda Fort and Taramati Baradari. They stand at the center of Ibrahim Bagh which consists of planted pathways and ponds. There are around thirty tombs in the enclosure besides some beautiful open-air tombs that vary in size. The largest of all of these tombs is the Mohammed Quli Qutub Shahi tomb.

Qutb Shahi Tombs is a group of beautiful mosques that were built during the rule of the Qutb Shahi Dynasty. These tombs are built on a raised platform and have a splendid dome-shaped structure. The best thing is that all the domes over here are unique, with fine details and intricate designs. The beauty of this place is so appealing that people often forget that they’re in a royal graveyard once they’re over here.

A small temple and two mosques are also located on the premises of these tombs, where people come to pray and seek the blessings of God. These tombs are surrounded by landscaped gardens where people often come for a picnic. Every dome, arch, and gallery of these tombs speak of its architectural excellence.

History of Qutub Shahi Tombs

One of the most important tombs at the Qutub Shahi Tombs is the one that belongs to the Qutub Shahi dynasty founder, Sultan Quli Qutub-ul-Mulk. He built his tomb himself and was the longest overseer of the architectural project. He also decided to build tombs that belonged to the non-ruling members of the royal families for example the sisters, nephews, and nieces.

Just like the Paigah Tombs were built for the entire Paigah nobility, the Qutub Shahi Tombs were built and dedicated to the seven Qutub Shahi rulers and their families who ruled Golconda for nearly 170 years

Architecture of Qutub Shahi Tombs

The grandeur of the tombs is shielded by the majestic, landscaped gardens of Ibrahim Bagh. The styles of the tombs are perhaps, the most important reason why thousands of tourists flock to the resting places of these Golconda rulers. One will be able to see Hindu, Persian, Pathan, and Deccan styles of architecture. As a result, you will be able to spot the amalgam of the Indo-Saracenic entrances, Persian minarets, domed structures, and intricately designed columns. Inside, the tombs differ in size and number. One of the most modest-looking tombs belongs to the founder of the Qutub Shahi dynasty himself-Sultan Quli Qutub-ul-Mulk.

Simple designs and geometrical symmetry are probably the only patterns that glaze his sarcophagus. However, one of the most impressive tombs belongs to the founder of Hyderabad, Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah, and rises to a height of 42 meters and is protected by a large dome. Minarets and ornamental parapets complete the Islamic architecture and his tomb. The other tombs are still awe-inspiring in their own right. False openings, central pillars, and two-tiered terraces all form an important part of the architecture of the other tombs here.

The corridors of the famous Qutub Shahi tombs are famous for their Indo-Saracenic style of architecture. Pointed arches and 28 openings add to the kingly architecture of the Qutub Shahi Tombs.