The Qutub Minar Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Mehrauli, New Delhi. It is home to an array of historically significant monuments, the most iconic being the towering Qutub Minar. This magnificent minaret, constructed with intricate red sandstone carvings, is the tallest brick minaret globally. The complex also features the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, the first mosque built in Delhi, and the Iron Pillar, a metallurgical marvel that has remained rust-free for over 1,500 years. The lush green lawns surrounding the monuments offer a serene escape from the bustling city.
The construction of the Qutub Minar Complex began in the late 12th century under Qutub-ud-din Aibak, the founder of the Delhi Sultanate. The minaret, intended as a victory tower, was named after him. The complex saw additions and modifications by subsequent rulers, including Iltutmish and Alauddin Khalji. The Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, built using materials from demolished Hindu and Jain temples, showcases a blend of architectural styles. The complex stands as a testament to the early Islamic rule in India and its architectural prowess.