Agra

Although the splendor of Agra began with the Mughal’s of the 16th century, when the Silk Roads are waning, the architectural treasures found in this city should not be passed - most notably the Taj Mahal. Agra has a history split between the Yamuna River. On the east bank lies the foundations of an ancient city that remains somewhat forgotten. On the west bank lies modern day Agra founded in 1558 by Akbar the Great. It was this city that brought worldwide fame for the Mughal Empire where it served as its capitol over 100 years. 

The mightiest remnant of the Mughals stands as an imposing fort of bright red walls, gates and watchtowers in the center of Agra - the residence of the royal families in the late 16th through 17th centuries. Walking through the palace makes one speechless with the intricate stonework, manicured gardens, stately pillars, and splendid views of the city. A traverse along the Silk Roads from west to east leads you past the man-made wonders of Hagia Sophia, Ani and Samarkand, but no one is ever prepared for the first glimpse of the Taj Mahal. An ivory-white mausoleum built by a Mughal emperor to be the resting place of his wife. The unbelievable undertaking to construct it is evident from its first sight across the gardens to carefully observing the smallest details. The Taj Mahal has not only become a symbol of love, but the symbol of India itself.