Gol Gumbaz is a tomb of Adil Shah in Bijapur, Karnataka. Its circular dome is said to be the second largest in the world after St.Peter's Basilica in Rome. A specialty is that, the central dome stands without any pillar support. Mohammed Adil Shah, the 7th ruler of Adil Shahi Dynasty, ordered to build this tomb before his death. The simple and elegant design of Gol Gumbaz still remains an architectural wonder of Bijapur Sultanate.
The acoustics of 'Whispering Gallery' is just amazing, even a small sound can be heard on the other side of the mausoleum. The four corners of the building have 7 floored towers, with staircases inside. One gets to see a beautiful view from these minars. The graves of Adil Shah, his wives and a few other family members can be found inside the building.
One small building which was earlier called Naqqarkhana (band room) has been converted into a museum. It has many artifacts and pictures belonging to Bijapur Sultanate. Today, Gol Gumbaz is one of the famous monuments and a must visit place in Karnataka.
The Majestic Gol Gumbaz
Gol Gumbaz is also called as Gol Gumbad which means a circular dome.
Photo Courtesy: Ashwatham
The Tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah
Mohammed Adil Shah was the 7th ruler of Adil Shahi Dynasty. It is believed that Adil Shah wanted a mausoleum similar to Ibrahim Rauza, his father's tomb.
Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar
Whispering Gallery
Here even a faint sound echoes several times and can be heard on the other side of the gallery.
Photo Courtesy: Florian Recklebe
Interior View of the Dome
The central dome is the second largest dome in the world. It actually stands without any support of pillars.
Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar
Gol Gumbaz Mosque
There is a mosque within the complex of Gol Gumbaz.
Photo Courtesy: Trupti
Entrance of Gol Gumbaz
It took almost 20 years to complete the construction of Gol Gumbaz. Adil Shah ordered to start the construction right after he ascended the throne of Bijapur Sultanate.
Photo Courtesy: Akshatha
Naqqarkhana (Band Room)
This was the place where musicians used to play the music and the acoustics in Gol Gumbaz allowed the music to reach every corner.
Photo Courtesy: Alende devasia
Minars
Gol Gumbaz has 4 minars, each has 7 floors with staircases. One can see a good view of Bijapur from these minars.
Photo Courtesy: Mashalti