Qtub Minaret
Why the
Qtub Minaret (Minar)
in Delhi is specialThis unique, eight-century-old minaret is one of the world's tallest and most artistic.
Qtub Minaret tips & insights
How to pronounce
Pronouce Qtub as koo-tube
Carvings
The Qtub Minaret is celebrated for its intricate stone carvings and Koran verse inscriptions, particularly on the projecting balconies that ring each floor.
Inconsistent design
The five floors are not uniform in design or building material because the minaret was built by three rulers over a 176-year period. Each had a different architectural inspiration.
- A Mughal ruler began the project in
1192 but died before the first floor
was completed.
- His successor successfully finished three floors before succumbing.
- Finally, a third ruler topped off the minaret in 1368 with the crowning floor.
The Qtub Minaret soars 72 meters (238 feet). Its diameter is 14 meters (47 feet) at the base and 2.7 meters (9 feet) on top.
Climbing
Visitors are no longer allowed to climb up the spiral stairs (as I once did) because of some unfortunate fatal accidents.
Qtub complex
The minaret is part of a collection of historic sights including a mosque and the tall and slender 1,600-year-old Iron Pillar.
Location in India
