Lucknow is known as the "City of Nawabs" and for me this is the "City of magnificent monuments".
One of the most magnificent buildings amongst others in Lucknow is the famous "Jama Masjid" or "Jami Masjid" This mosque was built in the 14th century by Sultan Ahmed Shah.
The name of this structure implies that this building was built with the purpose of congregation for prayers on Friday afternoon.
The Muslim population in Lucknow gather here during all festive occasions, such as Bakri Id & Id-Ul-Fitr.
The entire building is built with yellow stone.
The structure has a beautiful mix of Hindu & Muslim architectural styles.
The structure consists of 15 arch type domes which are supported by 260 pillars at different heights from ground level.
The pillars have beautiful carvings which are inspired by Hindu and Jain culture.
There is a huge courtyard and the tomb of sultan Ahmed Shah lies on the eastern entrance.
While this mosque was built in 1842, the sultan wanted to begin prayers here.
Controversy arose since part of the land on which the mosque was built belonged to Naeem Khan whom the sultan had not paid for acquiring his land.
When the Sultan summoned at his service Shia chief priest Sultan-Ul-Ulema to begin prayers, he refused to offer prayers, the reason being the land on which the mosque was built was disputed.
According to Shia laws a mosque should not be built on a disputed land and prayers can be only offered when the dispute is resolved.
The sultan then resolved the issue with Naeem Khan and then prayers were offered at the mosque.
The first prayers were offered in this mosque on a Friday of 1942.
The sultan ruled for a brief period of five years and died at the age of sixty eight.
Before he expired he made provision of ten lakh rupees with his begum Malka Jahan for completing the project.
In spite of the funding the mosque was not fully completed and this is visible clearly from the two partly built minarets on the western style.
This masjid was protected with a walled boundary which eventually was destroyed during the struggle with British in the 18th century.
One can visit this place by booking a rented cab in Lucknow for additional travel comfort.
This building is located at the centre of old Lucknow city.
Don't miss to take your camera with you to capture all moments with this magnificent building at the background.
Happy sightseeing!