World Architecture
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World Architecture Day is celebrated on 3rd October every year. The day is celebrated to appreciate the magnificent architectural works of the ancient and modern world. It is an opportunity for honoring the brilliant architects who have constructed them.
History of architecture and the history of humankind are interlinked. ‘Architecture’ reflects our culture, tradition, and intellectuality.
The ‘neolithic architecture’ was mostly made up of stones, tree trunks, clay, and timber posts. The ‘stonehenge’ is one among the several remarkable architectural structures from the era. Neolithic architecture can be mostly found in southwest Asia and Europe.
The period of antiquity, some of the world’s greatest architectures were made during this time. A few of the significant structures include the ‘Ziggurat of Ur’. It is a mesopotamian structure which is dedicated to the god Maruk. Another architectural marvel of the period are the pyramids of the Egyptian dynasty.
The classic period of architecture witnessed the rise of ancient Greece and Roman architecture. Ancient Roman architecture was really advanced for its time. The Pantheon and the Colosseum are few examples of Roman architecture.
The following years witnessed the rise of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and neo-Gothic architectural forms.
Early 20th century marks the beginning of the modern architecture era. The prominent architectural styles of the era include the Art Deco (Chrysler building), Expressionism (Lotus Temple), and Internationalism (Equitable building).
‘Postmodernism’ is the architectural style of the 21st century. The team Disney building located in Orlando is an example for this. 3D printing and sustainable architectural styles are predicted to gain popularity in the coming years.
The International Union of Architects created the World Architect Day in the year 1985. The day aims at creating a safe future for the human habitat.
Architectural marvels in India
Indian ‘architecture’ has a long history and is definitely the biggest artistic glory of our wonderful nation. Thanks to the mindblowing structures built across civilizations in various parts of the country – India is among the top tourist destinations in the world!
Tourist attractions
Taj Mahal: Taj Mahal is one among the seven wonders of the world. It is a symbol of love and commitment. Located in Agra, Taj Mahal was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. She died at the age of 38 after giving birth to their fourteenth child. The construction of Taj Mahal was completed in 1653 AD. Ustad Ahmed Lahauri was the chief architect and about 22,000 people were involved in the construction of the engineering marvel.
Ajanta and Ellora caves: Located in Maharashtra, the Ajanta caves date back to 2nd century BCE. It is a rock cut cave monument. The paintings in Ajanta depict Buddhist religious art and Jataka tales. On the other hand, the Kailasa temple inside the Ellora caves is a sight to behold. These temples were used for various purposes including education, living and worship.
Sun Temple: The Konark Sun Temple is one of the world heritage sites in India. The design of the temple is in the Shikhara style. Constructed in the 13-th century CE, the structure is symbolic of one of the finest temple architectures in the country. It was originally conceived as a huge chariot structure drawn by seven pairs of horses. All these specialities make visiting Sun Temple an unforgettable experience for the people!
Tawang Monastery: Situated in Arunachal Pradesh, Tawang Monastery is the second largest monastery in the world. Located on top of a hill (10,000 feet above sea level), the Buddhist spirituality center was founded by Merak Lama Lodre Gyatso in 1680-81. It was built as per the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama. The main temple in the monastery is called the Dukhang and has a figure of Buddha sitting in Lotus position.
Golconda Fort: The Golconda fort (meaning the Shepherd’s Hill) served as the capital city of the Golconda kingdom. The huge hill fortress in Hyderabad was initially under the rule of the Kakatiya dynasty. Later on, somewhere during the medieval times, it was annexed into the Bahmani Kingdom. As years rolled by, It was passed on to the Qutub Shahis and Nizam Shahis, until 1948. The main gate of the fort is called the ‘Fateh Darwaza’. The fort was uniquely designed with enough ventilation to help the royals escape the scorching Deccani summers. Besides this, the amazing acoustic effect inside the fort helped in alerting the soldiers during the time of attack. Golconda fort attracts scores of visitors every year, making it one of the most popular destinations in Hyderabad.
India Gate: The ‘India Gate’ built in the national capital of Delhi is basically a war memorial. It honors the Indian soldiers who died in the First World War and the Third Anglo Afghan war. The architect of the formidable structure is the legendary English architect Sir Edwards Lutyens. The Amar Jawan Jyoti is installed in the middle of the gate to commemorate war heroes. The India Gate is one of the top tourist destinations for foreigners visiting our country.
So on this year’s ‘World Architect Day’, let’s appreciate the marvelous structures built across the globe and honor the efforts of the brilliant architects behind these masterpieces.
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Check your knowledge
Answer) October 3rd
Answer) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer) Sir Edwards Lutyens