Gol Gumbaz (1656): Epic Marvel of Indo-Islamic Architecture

What is Gol Gumbaz Bijapur?

Deemed as the Taj Mahal of South India, the Gol Gumbaz Bijapur in the Karnataka state is a marvel of Indo-Islamic architecture. Its intricate architecture and exquisite construction have made it a popular attraction among the history buffs of the world. It is known for its acoustic features along with great dimensions. Built in 1656 it took 30 years to complete the construction of Gol Gumbaz. The mausoleum was designed by Yaqut of Dabul. 

The southern region of India sports less Indo-Islamic architecture than the northern region. Gol Gumbaz is one of the few of those examples. It is also popular because of the distinct southern regional style of architecture not found in the country’s northern parts.

Gol Gumbaz had the largest dome of any Islamic structure in a country for years after its construction. It also is the second largest dome ever built, next in size only to St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. It is an exceptional task for artisans to use bronze to create the mesmerizing structure of the Gol Gumbaz.

Gol Gumbaz History and Its Significance:

The Gol Gumbaz history is rich. It is a mausoleum which contains the mortal remains of Mohammad Adil Shah. He was the seventh Sultan of the Adil Shahi dynasty, which was spread over southern India. Later, the dynasty was merged into the Mughal Empire.

Mohammad Adil Shah was 15 when he became the Sultan of the dynasty. At such a young age, he became obsessed with death. He wanted to build a mausoleum for his mortal remains that were greater and bigger than his father’s. He was also scared that he might get buried in a common tomb after his death. Thus, he started building the Gol Gumbaz in the year 1627. The vast dimensions of the place proved to be a daunting task for artisans. Thus, the construction continued till 1656. The incomplete building was converted into the tomb of Adil Shah II.

The mausoleum shares its location with the dargah of Hashim Pir, a Sufi saint. This closeness proves that the Sultan shared a close relationship with the saint.

Architectural Marvel of Gol Gumbaz

Gol Gumbaz: Architectural Highlights

1. Monumental Structure: The Gol Gumbaz, built in 1657 by architect Yaqut, stands on a 183-meter square podium and is the most prominent structure in Bijapur.
2. Massive Dome: Its dome, measuring 37.9 meters in diameter, is the second-largest in the world, only surpassed by St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
3. Distinctive Cube Design: The tomb resembles a large cube crowned by a hemispherical dome, with a seven-story octagonal tower at each corner, topped by smaller domes.
4. Intricate Facades: The facades feature a central arch, grey basalt cornices, rows of small arches, and a 1.8-meter high balustrade, blending elegance with durability.
5. Whispering Gallery: At the sixth story, a unique gallery encircles the dome, known for its acoustic properties that create a ten-fold echo.
6. Tower Windows & Staircases: Each of the corner towers contains seven arched windows per story and winding staircases within the main structure’s walls.
7. Aerial Views: From the base of the dome, visitors enjoy sweeping views of Bijapur.
8. Nearby Mosque: Adjacent to the west is a gracefully designed mosque, adding a serene architectural complement to the mausoleum.

The Grand Dome: Engineering Feat

The mausoleum of Gol Gumbaz is recognized for its massive dome. It is one of the finest artistry of Deccan Indo-Islamic architecture. Constructed with dark grey basalt, the dome skis up to 51 meters with an external diameter of 44 meters. You can witness a square podium with a wooden canopy intricately carved inside the museum hall. 

The gravestone, placed in the middle of the podium, marks the actual location of the tomb of the Sultan. The hall of the mausoleum is stretched up to an area of 18,000 sq ft, which makes the mausoleum one of the largest single-chamber spaces in the world. It must be known that the dome of the spectacular Gol Gumbaz is not supported by any pillars or towers, thus glorifying the architectural excellence of India

Whispering Gallery of Gol Gumbaz

Goal Gumbaz has an interesting feature worth the experience. It houses a whispering gallery right beneath the tomb. This gallery runs around the entire inner periphery of the dome. A semi-darkness aura mostly surrounds the Whispering Gallery is a massive structure in architectural history worldwide. The whispering gallery is renowned for its echoes, even of the faintest voice. Any sound made here is echoed more than 7 times inside the whispering gallery. It is one of the most fantastic acoustic experiences you can relish at Gol Gumbaz.

Four Minarets: Symbolism and Aesthetics

The Gol Gumbaz of Bijapur is known for its four iconic minarets. These minarets define the structure and architecture of the rich Indian history of the 17th century. Acting as a vantage point, these minarets are symbols of aesthetic beauty and their role in acting as a support to the world’s largest dome – Gol Gumbaz. The massive structure is adorned by the dome-capped towers on four sides. Each tower skis up to 7 storeys with a staircase built inside it. It also plays a vital role in acting as the acoustic of the massive tower–whispering gallery. This gallery creates an echo effect that echoes even the faintest voice.

Mausoleum of Muhammad Adil Shah

The reign of Muhammad Adil Shah’s history dates back to 1481 A.D. when Mohammad Gowan was executed, and the Bahmani kingdom was divided into 5 independent kingdoms. Bijapur kingdom was one of them.

Yusuf Adilkhan was the governor of Bijapur at that time. He readily declared his independence and took the ‘Shah’ title. Finally, he founded the AdilShahi dynasty in 1489 A.D. AdilShahis reigned for almost 2 centuries. Bijapur was a prosperous kingdom under the Shah dynasty. It was marked for religious tolerance, artistic excellence, and architectural recognition. One could witness the flourishing art and commerce in the kingdom.

Their motto was: One Team, One Spirit, and One Mission.

Adhering to its motto, the dynasty made Bijapur a pioneer in the literary field. The Bijapur School of Art speaks about the artistic glory of Bijapur. The most remarkable establishment was made under the reign of the seventh ruler of Bijapur, Ibrahim Adil Shah II.

Adil Shah II is commemorated for its simple yet magnificent mausoleum of Bijapur – Gol Gumbaz. It is the second-largest dome in the world. Its whispering gallery shines through. Other establishments,, such as Ibrahim Rouza and Jama masjid signify the artistic eminence of Bijapur under Adil Shah.

There are more fascinating things to know about this monument. We will discuss 10 interesting facts about Gol Gumbaz in the later part of this page.

Architectural Comparisons: Taj Mahal and Gol Gumbaz

Gol Gumbaz, situated in Bijapur, is widely known for its symmetrical architecture and commendable echo system. The echo system is designed so that even the faintest sound can be heard at about 37 meters. The huge edifice is a structure with dark grey basalt. It is one of the amazing structures of the Deccan Indo-Islamic architectural style. It is also known as the Black Taj Mahal.

An interesting fact about that Gol Gumbaz and the Taj Mahal began their establishment at the same time. Gol Gumbaz was established as a mausoleum of Mohammed Adil Shah, whereas Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan established the Taj Mahal. Gol Gumba took at least 29 years to get completed, whereas the Taj Mahal took 22 years to finish. However, Gol Gumbaz is double the size of the Taj Mahal.

The Taj Mahal, on the other hand, is also a remarkable tower in the whole range of Indo-Islamic architectural styles. It has a beautiful combination of solids, concave and convex, light shadow, and voids. The Taj Mahal is one of the best illustrations of the raised tomb variety. The white – ivory – marble work and use of precious and semi-precious stones shine through in the monument.

Also Read:-

Jantar Mantar: A Wonders Journey

7 Wonders of India: Architectural Marvels

Safdarjung’s Tomb in Delhi: Entry Fee, Timings, History, and Construction

Places to visit near Gol Gumbaz

• Ibrahim Roza– A stunning Indo-Islamic tomb and mosque, known for its beauty, often compared to the Taj Mahal.
• Taj Bawdi – A historical step-well with impressive architecture, located around a kilometer from Gol Gumbaz.
• Bijapur Fort – A large fort with ruins, gates, and bastions, offering a glimpse into the city’s military past.
• Malik-e-Maidan – A massive cannon in the Bijapur Fort, one of the largest in the world.
• Jama Masjid – An iconic mosque with a vast courtyard and intricate arches, located near the city center.
• Asar Mahal – A 17th-century palace that houses relics of Prophet Muhammad, known for its beautiful arches.
• Gagan Mahal – A royal palace blending Hindu and Islamic architecture, with stunning arches.
• Bara Kaman – An unfinished monument with twelve arches, built as the tomb of Ali Adil Shah II.
• Shiv Giri Hill – A scenic hill offering panoramic views and a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Hukum Singh’s Tomb – A lesser-known, architecturally intriguing tomb on the outskirts of Bijapur.

Tourism and Visitor Experience of Gol Gumbaz

The tourism industry of Bijapur flourishes due to the presence of Gol Gumbaz. “If this was the marvel in its incomplete state, what would it have been if it was completed?” – a tourist cited.

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, this marvellous creation is worth a watch. Bijapur is adorned with transportation facilities. It is a well-connected city with all the major cities of North and South India. Being a tourist, you can also take the help of public transport such as buses or trains to reach the place. Once you reach Bijapur, grab an auto or a taxi and arrive at your destination easily and comfortably. 

Gol Gumbaz is open on all 7 days of the week. The time ranges from 10 am to 5 pm. You need to pay extra for the camera. Moreover, you can avail of a tourist guide who can share the place’s historical significance.

Visitor Testimonials and Experiences

The tourist attraction has increased in a couple of years to 2000 tourists per day in Bijapur’s Gol Gumbaz. Exploring the architectural and auditory marvel of our history is a must-visit. We have accumulated a few testimonials from people who visited Gol Gumbaz.

When you visit the top, you will be amazed at how good the techniques were in the 17th century – a visitor said about Gol Gumbaz. If you are in Bijapur, you have to visit this – another visitor said.

10 interesting facts about Gol Gumbaz

These 10 interesting facts about Gol Gumbaz provide a deeper insight into the historical, architectural, and cultural importance of Gol Gumbaz, making it a fascinating subject for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

1. Architectural Innovation: The Gol Gumbaz features a unique structural design known as a “pendentive dome,” which allows the circular dome to rest on a square base. This was a groundbreaking architectural solution at the time.
2. No Central Pillar: Unlike many large domed structures of the period, Gol Gumbaz’s massive dome is entirely self-supporting, with no central pillars, making it an extraordinary engineering feat for its time.
3. Construction Material: The dome is constructed from a unique blend of materials, including dark grey basalt and lime plaster, which contribute to its durability and distinctive appearance.
4. Largest Single-Chamber Space: The main chamber of Gol Gumbaz is one of the largest single-chamber spaces in the world, measuring 1,700 square metres (18,299 square feet), further emphasising the grandeur of the structure.
5. Historical Documentation: Historical records indicate that the construction of Gol Gumbaz employed thousands of labourers and took approximately 30 years to complete, highlighting the monumental effort behind its creation.
6. Mystery of the Architect: While the primary architect of Gol Gumbaz is often credited to Yaqut of Dabul, there is still some historical ambiguity about his exact identity and background, adding an element of mystery to its construction.
7. Dual Purpose Minarets: The four minarets at each corner of the Gol Gumbaz serve not only as architectural features but also as functional staircases that provide access to the whispering gallery and the roof, illustrating a clever use of space.
8. Timekeeping System: The Gol Gumbaz complex originally included a clock tower that was considered one of the most accurate timekeeping devices of its era, underscoring the scientific advancements of the time.
9. Preservation Challenges: Over the centuries, the Gol Gumbaz has faced various preservation challenges, including natural weathering and human-induced damage, which makes its current state a testament to effective restoration efforts.
10. Tourist Engagement: Modern technology has enhanced visitor experiences at Gol Gumbaz. Interactive displays and augmented reality apps are available to help tourists understand the historical and architectural significance of the monument in greater detail.

Visitor Information

Category	Details
Timings	6:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Entry Fee	Indian Nationals – Rs.20/- Foreign Visitors – Rs.250/- Children up to 15 years – No fees
Famous For	Mausoleum, Tomb, Historic Place
Visit Duration	1 to 2 hours

Tips for Visitors

The imposing Gol Gumbaz tomb rivals even India’s most famous mausoleums. Here are some insider tips to enhance your visit:

• Beat the Crowds: Arrive early when the monument opens. This allows you to appreciate the architectural details and serene atmosphere without feeling rushed.
• Capture the Majesty: Don’t forget your camera! Photography is permitted inside the monument, so snap away and capture the tomb’s grandeur.
• Parking Made Easy: No need to fret about parking. The monument offers convenient parking facilities for your vehicles.
• Immerse Yourself: Allocate 1-2 hours for your visit. This allows ample time to explore the monument’s various sections and truly appreciate its architectural magnificence.

How To Reach Gol Gumbaz

Bijapur boasts excellent connectivity, making it easily accessible from various cities in South and West India. Here’s how you can navigate your way:

By Road:

• Effortless Journey: Bijapur has a well-established bus network, offering a convenient and budget-friendly option. You can check bus schedules online or inquire at local bus stands.
• Taxi or Auto Rickshaw: For a more personalized experience, consider hiring a taxi or auto rickshaw upon reaching Bijapur. Negotiate fares beforehand for a smooth ride.
• Local Buses: For a cultural immersion, hop on a local bus. This option may take longer but offers a glimpse into everyday life in Bijapur.

A Touch of Nostalgia:

For a truly unique experience, consider a ride in a horse-drawn tonga, adding a touch of nostalgia to your journey.

Air Travel (Future Option):

Currently, Bijapur awaits the completion of its new airport. In the meantime, the nearest airport is Sambre Airport in Belgaum, situated approximately 164 kilometres away.

Plan Your Gol Gumbaz Adventure:

Choose your preferred mode of transportation based on your budget and desired experience. With its convenient accessibility, Bijapur welcomes you to explore the architectural marvel of Gol Gumbaz.

Conclusion

Primarily, Gol Gumbaz was built by Mohammad Adil Shah as his Mausoleum. However, its significant architectural splendour has become a spot of tourist interest today. The jaw-dropping structure of Gol Gumbaz is a symbol of a commendable piece of civil engineering. It has now been added to the list of world heritage sites. Moreover, the Archaeological Survey of India has attempted to lift it’s maintenance. Efforts are made to maintain the architectural heritage of this monument so that it can attract as many tourists as the Taj Mahal. It is indeed a treat for the eyes. You can also spend your day at Gol Gumbaz and take in the elixir of our country’s excellence with pride.

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQ’s )