Moti Masjid Agra History, Construction, Architecture and Facts

Moti Masjid Quick Facts

Moti Masjid Overview

Moti Masjid is one of the grand constructions built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, which is located in Agra in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. The mosque got its name from its composition, as it shines like a big pearl. The era of the famous Mughal emperor Shah Jahan is called the golden period of art and architecture in Indian history. Many wonderful buildings were built during his reign.

He built world famous monuments like Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Red Fort (Delhi) and Jama Masjid (Delhi). Moti Masjid has been given the title of "Pearl Mosque".

Moti Masjid History

This mosque was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the 16th century. It is believed that this mosque was built by the emperor for the members of his Royal Court. This mosque, made of white marble very artistically, looks very grand to see, due to which thousands of tourists visiting Agra every year do not go without seeing this mosque.

Moti Masjid Interesting Facts

1. It took 6 years to build this grand mosque. Its construction work started in about 1648 and was completed in 1654.
2. Pure white stones were used for the construction of the mosque, due to which it appears as bright white velvet-like pearls.
3. The Moti Masjid has 7 sections, supported by ribbed arches and pillars, each further divided into three aisles.
4. There are 3 domes on the roof of the mosque, which are made of white marble. The walls of the dome are made of red sandstone.
5. To the left of the mosque is the Diwan-i-Aam, the place where the emperor held the court to meet his subjects.
6. The slope of the floor built in the mosque goes down from east to west.
7. There is a marble tank in the center of the mosque complex as well as a traditional incense clock set on an octagonal marble pillar at one corner of the court.
8. The mosque has 3 entrances, the largest of which is located on the eastern side of the complex, also known as the main gate. There are two additional gates at the southern and northern ends.
9. A part of the main prayer hall of the mosque has been covered with nets so that even Mughal women can offer prayers in this prayer hall. These jaalis are made of white marble.
10. There are 3 steps in the platform of all the mosques located in the world, but this is the only mosque that has four steps.
11. Here is a series of domed kiosks, which were mainly inspired by Hindu architecture.
12. This Mosque is one of the most expensive architecture built during the Mughal reign. Its total construction cost at that time was Rs 1,60,000.
13. Some features of the architectural style of this mosque are very similar to that of Saint Basil's Cathedral in Moscow.
14. Like all the buildings built during the Mughal period, this mosque has also been constructed with a symmetrical design, which looks very attractive to see.
15. This Mosque is situated on the banks of river Yamuna, close to the city of Agra.
16. Certain fees have been fixed by the committee to enter the mosque, according to which Indian citizens have to pay a fee of Rs 20 and foreign tourists have to pay a fee of Rs 750.