Akbars Sikandra

Ten days after his 63rd birthday the Mughal Emperor Akbar died in the historic Agra fort. His burial site is in the small town of Sikandra located some 6 miles away.  it is mentioned in history that like much of his predecessors (Humayun, Sher Shah and Tughlaq), he initiated the construction of his mausoleum during his rule. The construction started 3 years prior to his death in 1605 and subsequently his son and successor Jahangir completed the same in the 7^th year of his reign (1613). Jehangir in his chronicles mentions that he was not satisfied with the way the Mausoleum architecture was progressing and made several alterations to it in line with Persian architecture. The exact cost of constructing this edifice may not be known as well and several other facts related to its Architect and Builder are lost in history. 

The complex also holds the tomb of Akbar's wife Mariam, the mother of Jahangir.

The structure is entirely crafted in fine red sandstone. Built in the Indo Saracenic style, it has a blend of Hindu, Islamic, Christian, Buddhist and Jain motifs at par with the religious path chosen by the Emperor.  Beautiful calligraphic inscriptions on white marble are visible as you enter the premises near the gate.  On a huge open lawn, a number of Blackbucks can be seen roaming around.  The Tomb located at the center of the Complex moves away from traditional Islamic architecture in that it has no domed roof, you can find some resemblance to the Char Minar of Hyderabad with 4 huge Sandstone Minarets inlaid with Marble work.

The five storied tomb is approached by a paved path. The Sanctum of the Mausoleum, which is square in shape, is richly decorated with Flowers, Geometric designs and Islamic calligraphy, in a riot of colors. As is typical of such Mausoleums, the actual Tomb of Akbar would be lying one level below the tomb being displayed to the public eye.

During its heydays the mausoleum had a huge bronze gate and the interiors were decorated with ornaments of gold, silver and precious stones.  Most of the precious artifacts are missing now, pillaged over a period of time by marauders, only the Emperor in his grave is a mute testimony to the days of his glory gone by