Where is the Taj Mahal?

Many people think this is one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and it is regarded as the finest example of Islamic architecture. It was built on the Jumna River near Agra in India by Shah Jahan, emperor of India, between 1631 and 1653 as a tomb for his wife Mumtaz Mahal (‘Jewel of the Place’). The whole building is covered with white marble inlaid with colored stones in abstract patterns. It stands on a rectangular platform 580 m (635yds) by 304 m (333yds) and the whole edifice is reflected in a pool lined with cypress trees. According to tradition, it is best to see it by moonlight. Shah Jahan, who reigned from 1628 to 1666, belonged to the Mughal dynasty, and his court was famous for its artists, especially painters.