Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani, Agra

The Tomb of Mariam-uz-Zamani is the final resting place of the queen consort of Emperor Akbar and the mother of Emperor Jahangir. It was built between 1623 and 1627 and reflects the Mughal approach to funerary architecture, combining red sandstone with decorative marble inlays. The tomb is set within a walled enclosure and gardens that follow a simplified charbagh layout, with pathways and planted areas providing a calm setting around the structure.

The building has a flat roof and is topped at the four corners with three-tiered chhatris, or small domed kiosks, rather than a central dome. The red sandstone walls are accented with white marble, and the façades feature arched openings and carved panels. This combination of materials and details gives the tomb visual interest while maintaining the simplicity and balance typical of early Mughal architecture. The boundary wall around the site separates the tomb from the surrounding area while framing the gardens and pathways.

Inside, the cenotaph of Mariam-uz-Zamani is placed in the central chamber, while the actual grave lies in a lower chamber, following traditional Mughal burial practices. The interior is straightforward, with emphasis on symmetry and proportion rather than elaborate decoration. Visitors can walk along the raised platform and view the cenotaph from designated points, observing the craftsmanship and layout closely.

The surrounding gardens provide open lawns, shaded areas, and walkways for visitors to explore the site at a relaxed pace. Its flat-roofed structure with corner chhatris offers a clear example of early 17th-century Mughal funerary architecture and the design approaches that influenced later tombs.