Bara Imambara
Lucknow, India
- Admire the Shahi Baoli stepwell
- Explore the Asafi Imambara
- Navigate the Bhul Bhulaiya maze
- Take photos of intricate carvings
- Visit the mosque and museum
Known for:
Description:
The Bara Imambara is an imposing historical complex located in Lucknow, India. It's renowned for its incredible architecture, particularly the central hall, known as the Asafi Imambara. This hall is an architectural marvel, being the largest vaulted chamber in the world, built without any supporting beams or columns. The complex also houses the intricate Bhul Bhulaiya, a labyrinthine maze with over 1,000 passages, and the Shahi Baoli, a unique stepwell. Visitors can explore the grand courtyards, admire the symmetrical design, and marvel at the ingenious construction techniques of the era. The Imambara's scale and grandeur offer a glimpse into the rich history and architectural prowess of the Nawabs of Awadh.
History:
The Bara Imambara was built by Asaf-ud-Daula, the Nawab of Awadh, in 1784. Its construction was part of a larger relief project aimed at providing employment during a period of severe famine. The project employed thousands of people, from architects and laborers to skilled artisans. The Imambara's construction is notable not only for its scale but also for the unique techniques employed. The interlocking brickwork and the labyrinthine Bhul Bhulaiya are testaments to the ingenuity of the era's architects. The complex served as a symbol of the Nawab's power and benevolence, and it continues to stand as a significant historical landmark in India.