History of Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid was built by Shah Jahan for his favourite daughter Jahan Ara Begum. Its construction began in 1648 and took six years to complete with the efforts of five thousand workers. The mosque had a large open area in its front, known as the Tripoli Chowk. This octagonal chowk existed between Jama Masjid and the Delhi Gate of Agra Fort. However, this Chowk was destroyed during 1871-1873, to give room to Agra Fort Railway Station. The gateway otherwise known as the "Buland Darwaza" to the mosque was added after Shah Jahan's comprehensive victory in the Kandesh military campaign. A lot of the engravings are in Persian.
Architecture of Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is the second most visited place after in Agra after the Taj Mahal. A few steps high, it has various domes, out of which the prayer dome is the largest. Buland Darwaza is forty meters high and is built of red sandstone. It is semi-octagonal in pattern and contains three massive domes at the top. These domes are followed by three smaller domes and twelve tiny domes at lower levels.
The impressive arches at the courtyard are supported by pillars covered in red sandstone. The domes are decorated by an inverted lotus and are ornamented by a Kalash at the top. The designs on top of these domes are made of alternating stripes of marble and red sandstone. There is a Madrasa in the central courtyard, where small kids are taught Islamic language and culture. The interior walls have been made up of white marble singing the praise of the ruler in Persian inscriptions. Entry to the Jama Mosque is possible through five entrances. The gateway is embellished with small layers of sandstone. The Iwan (a rectangular hall walled on three sides) has a central arch with several geometric patterns.
Friday Prayer at Jama Masjid
Special Namaz is conducted at Jama Masjid every Friday, which is attended by devotees in large numbers. This is the only day when this place sees huge crowds which remain quite empty and serene on the other days. Jama Masjid is considered to be very sacred by the Muslims; hence tourists are expected to observe silence when they go to the mosque.
How to Reach Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid is located right opposite to the Agra Fort Railway Station, thus easy to reach. You can hire an auto rickshaw from any part of the city to reach the mosque.
Top Tourist Places in Agra
Agra Fort
Fatehpur Sikri
Itimad-ud-daula's Tomb
City Shopping
Akbar's Tomb
Jama Masjid
All Tourist Places in Agra
Best Restaurants Nearby
Agra has some impressive restaurants with a wide range of cuisines on offer. C'est Chine, a fine-dine restaurant has some amazing seafood on the menu. ITC Mughal is another famous dining option in the city with a diverse menu ranging from Chinese to Continental. Pinch of Spice, Sheroez Hangout and Tea'se Me - Rooftop Tea Boutique are few other options you may try. The price ranges from INR 800 to INR 1500 for two.
Tips
Remove shoes and cover your legs (in case you are wearing shorts). Women are expected to wear a tunic.Photography charges - INR 300
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