By IDTeamThe Qutub Minar, located in Delhi, India, is one of the most famous historical monuments in the country. Standing at 73 meters (240 feet) high, it is the tallest brick minaret in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built over several centuries, Qutub Minar is a blend of Indo-Islamic architecture and has an intriguing history full of mysteries and fascinating facts.
In this article, we will explore some of the most interesting and surprising facts about Qutub Minar that make it one of the greatest architectural wonders in India.
1. Qutub Minar Is the Tallest Brick Minaret in the World
The Qutub Minar holds the record as the tallest brick minaret in the world.
- It stands at an impressive height of 73 meters (240 feet).
- It has five distinct storeys, each with a unique design.
- The diameter of the base is 14.3 meters, which gradually narrows to 2.7 meters at the top.
This makes Qutub Minar an engineering marvel of medieval India!
2. It Was Built Over Several Centuries by Different Rulers
Qutub Minar was not built by just one ruler—it was constructed over a period of 175 years by multiple kings!
- Qutb-ud-din Aibak, the first ruler of the Delhi Sultanate, started its construction in 1192.
- His successor, Iltutmish, added three more storeys in 1220.
- In 1369, after a lightning strike damaged the minaret, Firoz Shah Tughlaq rebuilt the top two storeys.
- Later, Sikandar Lodi made additional repairs.
This makes Qutub Minar a historical monument with contributions from multiple dynasties.
3. Qutub Minar Was Inspired by an Afghan Minaret
The design of Qutub Minar was inspired by the Minaret of Jam in Afghanistan, which was built in the 12th century.
- The Minaret of Jam is made of bricks and decorated with intricate carvings, similar to Qutub Minar.
- Qutb-ud-din Aibak, who started building Qutub Minar, was influenced by the architectural style of Persian and Afghan structures.
This shows how Indian architecture evolved by combining influences from different cultures.
4. The Minaret Has Verses from the Quran Engraved on It
Qutub Minar is not just a tower—it is also a masterpiece of Islamic art.
- The walls of the minaret are beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and Arabic inscriptions.
- Verses from the Quran are engraved in Persian and Arabic calligraphy.
- The carvings also include floral patterns, geometric designs, and historical details about its construction.
This makes Qutub Minar a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
5. Qutub Minar Has Survived Several Earthquakes and Lightning Strikes
Over the centuries, Qutub Minar has faced multiple natural disasters.
- In 1369, a lightning strike destroyed the top floor, which was later rebuilt by Firoz Shah Tughlaq.
- Several earthquakes have damaged parts of the minaret. The most recent earthquake in 1803 caused cracks, which were repaired by Major Robert Smith, a British engineer.
- A cupola (dome) was added at the top, but later it was removed and placed in the Qutub Complex.
Despite these disasters, the minaret still stands strong after more than 800 years!
6. It Was Once Used as a Watchtower
Many historians believe that Qutub Minar was not just a victory tower but also a watchtower for the city of Delhi.
- Due to its great height, it was used to keep an eye on enemies approaching the city.
- Some theories suggest that it was also used for calling people for prayers, like a mosque’s minaret.
This proves that Qutub Minar had both symbolic and practical importance in medieval India.
7. The Minar Has 379 Steps Leading to the Top
Qutub Minar has a spiral staircase with exactly 379 steps leading to the top.
- Earlier, visitors were allowed to climb to the top of the minaret.
- However, after a tragic stampede in 1981, the interior was closed for public access.
- Today, tourists can only view the exterior of the monument, but it still remains a major attraction.
If the minaret were still open, climbing 379 steps would be a great challenge!
8. It Is Surrounded by Other Historical Monuments
Qutub Minar is not just a standalone monument—it is part of the Qutub Complex, which has many other historical structures.
Some notable monuments in the complex include:
- Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque – The first mosque built in India.
- Iron Pillar of Delhi – A 1,600-year-old iron pillar that has never rusted!
- Alauddin Khilji’s Tomb and Madrasa – A historic school and tomb of the second Sultan of Delhi.
Visiting Qutub Minar is like traveling back in time through India’s rich history!
9. The Iron Pillar Near Qutub Minar Has Mysterious Properties
The Iron Pillar of Delhi, located in the Qutub Complex, is famous for its anti-rust properties.
- It is 1,600 years old and still shows no signs of rusting!
- The pillar is made of 99% pure iron, which has resisted corrosion for centuries.
- Some believe it was built during the Gupta Empire as a tribute to Lord Vishnu.
This pillar remains one of India’s greatest metallurgical mysteries.
10. Qutub Minar Is a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Due to its historical and architectural importance, Qutub Minar was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.
- It attracts over 3 million tourists every year.
- It is one of the most photographed monuments in India.
- The Qutub Minar Festival is celebrated every year, featuring music, dance, and cultural performances.
This makes it one of the most important cultural heritage sites in India.
Final Thoughts
Qutub Minar is more than just a historic monument—it is a symbol of India’s rich past, architectural brilliance, and resilience. From its mysterious origins and natural disasters to its inscriptions and watchtower role, the minaret holds centuries of history within its walls.
Whether you are a history lover, architecture enthusiast, or a traveler, Qutub Minar is a must-visit destination that offers a glimpse into India’s fascinating heritage.