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Stamp Passport→Visiting Makkah Masjid?
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Makkah Masjid
Also known as: Mecca Masjid
One of the largest mosques in India, begun under Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah and finished by Aurangzeb. Bricks made with soil from Mecca are set over the central arch.
History & Story
Construction stretched across 77 years and three dynasties, begun by a Qutb Shahi sultan and completed by the Mughal emperor who conquered the very kingdom that started it. Bricks fired from soil brought from Mecca are set above the central doorway, giving the mosque a direct spiritual link to Islam's holiest site. The building could hold 10,000 worshippers at a time, making it one of the subcontinent's largest religious spaces. The Nizams of Hyderabad are buried in the tombs to the left of the entrance, making it also a royal necropolis.
Key Events
1617
Construction begun by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
1687
Golconda falls; construction continues under Mughal administration
1694
Completed by Aurangzeb, 77 years after foundation
Key People
M
Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
patron who commissioned the mosque in 1617
A
Aurangzeb
Mughal emperor who completed it after conquering Golconda in 1687
N
Nizams of Hyderabad
buried in the tombs adjacent to the mosque
Location & Getting There
Area / Locality: Charminar
Coordinates: 17.36040° N, 78.47360° E
Access: free