BADSHAHI MASJID

Historical Background:
The Badshahi Mosque, also known as the "Imperial Mosque," is a historic
religious site located in Lahore, Pakistan. Here is some historical
background information about the mosque:

When: Construction of the Badshahi Mosque began in 1671 and was

completed in 1673 during the reign of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Where: The Badshahi Mosque is situated in the Walled City of Lahore, on

the outskirts of the Lahore Fort. It is positioned on the western side of the
Alamgiri Gate, facing the Hazuri Bagh.

Why: The Badshahi Mosque was built to showcase the grandeur and
magnificence of the Mughal Empire, as well as to serve as a place of
worship for the Muslim population of Lahore. It was commissioned by
Emperor Aurangzeb as part of his efforts to demonstrate his power and
reinforce Islamic influence in the region.

Who: The mosque was commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb, who ruled

over the Mughal Empire from 1658 to 1707. The construction was
supervised by Aurangzeb's foster brother, Fidai Khan Koka, who was the
governor of Lahore at that time.
The Badshahi Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world and
stands as a remarkable example of Mughal architecture. It can
accommodate thousands of worshippers in its prayer hall and courtyard.
The mosque features intricate marble and sandstone work, decorative
frescoes, and beautifully crafted minarets. It has become an iconic symbol
of Lahore and a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the
world.

Plane and Material:

The primary materials used in the construction of the Badshahi Mosque
include red sandstone bricks, white marble, and limestone. Here is a
breakdown of how these materials were incorporated into the mosque:

Red Sandstone Bricks: The main structure of the mosque is constructed

using red sandstone bricks. This type of stone is known for its durability
and aesthetic appeal. The bricks were carefully carved and assembled to
form the walls, pillars, and arches of the mosque. Red sandstone gives the
mosque a distinct and vibrant appearance.

White Marble: The Badshahi Mosque features intricate marble inlay

work, particularly on its domes, minarets, and prayer halls. The white
marble used is of high quality and was imported from different regions. It
was skillfully carved and installed to create beautiful geometric and floral
patterns. The marble enhances the visual appeal of the mosque and adds
a touch of elegance to its design.

Limestone: Limestone was used for the flooring and the base of the
structure. It provides a smooth and durable surface for worshippers and
visitors. The limestone used in the construction was sourced locally and
was meticulously cut and laid to create a uniform and visually pleasing
floor.

Overall, the combination of Red sandstone bricks, white marble, and

limestone gives the Badshahi Mosque its distinctive architectural charm.
The mosque stands as a testament to the exquisite craftsmanship of the
Mughal era and continues to be a prominent landmark and place of
worship to this day.

Exterior:
Here's some information about the exterior construction and decoration
of the Badshahi Mosque:

Shape:
The Badshahi Mosque has a rectangular shape. It follows the traditional
layout of a Mughal mosque, with a large courtyard surrounded by arcades
and a prayer hall on one side.

Area:
The total area of the Badshahi Mosque complex is approximately 29,867
square meters. This includes the mosque building, the courtyard, and
other surrounding structures.
Building on a floor:
The Badshahi Mosque is a single-story structure. It does not have multiple
floors like some modern buildings. The prayer hall, which is the main
component of the mosque, is located on the ground floor.

Construction:
The mosque was constructed using red sandstone and marble. The walls
of the mosque are made of red sandstone, which gives it a distinct
appearance. The marble is primarily used for decorative elements, such
as inlays and intricate carvings.

Decoration:
The Badshahi Mosque is known for its elaborate decoration and intricate
craftsmanship. The exterior walls feature intricate calligraphy, geometric
patterns, and floral motifs carved into the sandstone. The marble inlays
and delicate tracery work add to the overall aesthetic appeal.

The main entrance of the mosque is adorned with a high and prominent
gateway, featuring beautiful arches and intricate detailing. The minarets,
which are an iconic feature of Mughal architecture, are tall and slender,
with decorative bands and balconies.

Overall, the Badshahi Mosque's exterior construction and decoration

reflect the opulence and artistic finesse of Mughal architecture.
Interior:
some general information on interior construction and decoration
elements commonly found in mosques.
Walls:
The walls of the Badshahi Masjid are typically made of brick or stone and
may feature elaborate decorative elements. Mughal architecture often
incorporates intricate plasterwork, calligraphy, and geometric patterns on
the walls. The walls may also include niches or alcoves for placing copies
of the Quran or decorative items.

Ceiling:
The ceiling of the mosque is usually adorned with exquisite decorative
elements. It may feature intricate plasterwork, carved woodwork, or
painted designs. Mughal architecture is known for its detailed and
elaborate ceiling designs, which often include floral patterns, geometric
shapes, and calligraphy. The ceilings may also incorporate colorful
frescoes or tile work.

Floor:
Mosques often have spacious prayer halls with large open areas covered
in carpets or rugs to provide a comfortable space for worshippers to pray.
The flooring beneath the carpeting can vary but is commonly made of
stone or marble. In some cases, mosques may have intricately designed
tile work or mosaic patterns on the floor, reflecting the artistic traditions
of the region.
Survey conclusion:
Badshahi Masjid stands as an extraordinary architectural marvel, blending
influences from different eras and cultures. Its narrative encompasses its
historical context, religious importance, and cultural significance. With its
adaptive features and enduring appeal, the Badshahi Masjid continues to
inspire awe and reverence, leaving a lasting impression on all those who
have the privilege of experiencing its grandeur.