Taj Mahal

Mausoleum complex on the southern bank of the Yamuna River. It was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.  Overlooking the River Yamuna, the Taj Mahal is a classic example of Moghul architecture, with the Taj itself built as a mausoleum at the northern end of an extensive formal walled garden designed in the charbagh style. The Taj complex, begun c. 1632, took 22 years to complete. At its centre lies a square garden area bounded by two smaller, oblong sections, one comprising the mausoleum and the other an entrance gateway.More than 20 000 workers were involved in its construction. It is regarded as one of the world's most beautiful buildings. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1983. Due to many industries on the banks of  Yamuna river Taj Mahal is facing large scale pollution problems. Recently many steps have been taken to reduce the pollution problems.