Monuments of Maharashtra depict the glorious history of its own that witnessed in different dynasties in different periods in India. These historical monuments in Maharashtra are situated in the cities like Nagpur, Pune, Aurangabad and major monuments is present in the capital of Mumbai itself. Due to the presence of these magnificent monuments, millions of tourists gather here from different places of the world. Each and every monument represents a different architectural style such as Mughal, Marathi and European.
Some of the major monuments of Maharashtra are:
Gateway of India
Gateway of India is a famous monument of Maharashtra, present in the capital of the state itself and is regarded as the starting point for several tourists. It was constructed in 1911 during the British rule, to welcome their monarch. This monument, being wonderfully crafted, has four turrets on its four corners and constructed into yellow basalt stone. Its amazing lattice work and the series of numerous steps leading down to water attracts thousands of national and foreign tourists to this place. This monument is the pride of Mumbai.
Chand Minar
Chand Minar is an Islamic architecture, constructed in the year 1435 by Alauddin Bahamani at Daulatabad city. It has a long 30 metre tower separated into four parts. It has a mosque at its base which is decorated with the Persian blue tiles. The construction, decoration and unique architecture make the monument outstanding.
Aga Khan Palace
Aga Khan Palace is situated in Pune in Yerwada district and is one of the prominent monuments of Gujarat. Aga Khan Palace is famous for its architectural excellence and historical values. It is constructed with the Italian arches on a 19 acre land. Several freedom fighters including Mahatma Gandhi, Kasturba Gandhi and Sarojini Naidu were imprisoned during Quit India Movement in the year 1942, by the British.
Kesari Wada
The monument of Kesari Wada was constructed by Gaikwads at Narayan Peth in Pune and is still regarded as one of the most famous monuments of Gujarat. This place was used by many freedom fighters for their discussions and planning during the colonial rule.
Bibi ka Maqbara
Bibi ka Maqbara is a wonderful tomb, present approximately 5 km away from the Aurangabad city in Maharashtra. It entombs the body of the wife of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb. It is an outstanding example of Islamic architecture, constructed in the 1651.
Lal Mahal
Located in Pune, Lal Mahal is constructed out of red brick and four umbrellas situated on the terrace of the structure is the most striking feature of the structure. Various events related to Shivaji`s life are painted and carved on the walls of Lal Mahal. There is also a statuette of his mother, Jijamata inside the palace. There is also a Jijamata Garden in the vicinity.
Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada was constructed by Baji Rao I, the 2nd Peshwa in Pune and work for the structure began in the year 1730. Although the structure lies in ruins, but still the intricate foundations, the Nagarkhana adorned with wooden pillars and latticework and the boundary walls with 5 with five entrances and 9 citadels depict the strength and glory of the Maratha rule.
Vishrambag Wada
Vishrambag Wada was constructed by Baji Rao II and is renowned for its intricate gateways and decorated balcony. The construction of the structure lasted for around 6 years and it represents the affluent heritage and culture of Pune.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is one of the oldest railway stations of India which is a crafted wonderfully by the British. Earlier, it was popularly known as Victorious Terminus.
Bombay High Court
Bombay High Court is situated in the Fort area of Mumbai and is one of the oldest high courts present in India. The foundation of this famous structure was laid by the skilled artisans in the year 1871, which took seven years to complete.
Apart from these monuments, Maharashtra is also famous for other monuments like, Rajabai Tower, New Palace, Khuladabad and Raste Wada. Each of these monuments contributed a lot in the rich history of India.