Moti Masjid, Agra

Moti Masjid was built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, the great monument builder of India and a connoisseur of architectural arts. Also called Pearl Mosque, the shrine justifies its name because it shines like a huge pearl. It was erected in the Agra Fort compound for the members of his royal court.

It is believed that those who have visited Saint Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow never fail to notice that several features in its architectural style closely resemble those of the Cathedral. The court yard of the mosque is flanked with arcades and arched recessions on its sides. The roof of the shrine has three white marble domes, built upon red sand stone walls that give it a sparkling appearance.

The structure itself is extensively built with white marble. Moti Masjid is built with exquisitely symmetrical design that lends it a magnificent facade. It is located on the bank of River Yamuna and is also close to the centre of the city of Agra.