The one-time capital of the Adil Shahi kings (1489-1686), Bijapur is dotted with mosques, mausoleums, palaces, fortifications, watchtowers and strong gateways, with the massive Gol Gumbaz dominating the landscape for miles around.
Gol Gumbaz
The magnificent mausoleum of Muhammed Adil Shah is a creation of wonder. It houses the world’s second largest dome, unsupported by pillars. Built in 1659,its most attractive features are the seven storied octagonal spires at the four corners and the heavy bracketed cornice below the parapet. The amazing whispering gallery,which distinctly echoes the finest whisper eleven times,is an unforgettable experience.
Ibrahim Roza
This impressive palatial Mosque and tomb are said to be an inspiration from TajMahal.This mausoleum of Ibrahim Adil Shah II has two buildings standing on common platform supported by arches and enclosed by gardens on three sides.
Jamia Masjid
One of the jewels of Adil Shah architecture is the Jamia Masjid with its graceful arches, aisles, halls and the large crowning onion dome. A priceless Koran,written in lettersofgold,is carefully preserved here. Another attraction is the 500 year old Baobab tree (Adansonia Bigibata)brought from South Africa. Legend says that during the construction of Ibrahim Roza, labourers ate their food and rested under this benign tree.And even after surviving all these centuries, this tree still bears fruit.
Malik-e-Maidan
This is a 55-ton cannon perched on a platform. The head of the cannon is fashioned into the shape of a lion whose jaws are trying to devour an elephant. Legend has it that if you touch the gun and make a wish, it will come true.
MehtarMahal
An ornamental gateway, leading to a mosque and garden which is a small but beautiful monument built by Ibrahim Adil Shah.
GaganMahal
This is a royal residence and durbar hall built by Ali AdilSha I around 1561.
Jala Manzil
This is a water pavilion surrounded by secluded courts and gardens.
Bara Kaman
The incomplete mausoleum of Ali AdilSha II with its 12 graceful arches
Upli Buruj
124 meter high, 16th century watch tower built on high ground,from which you get a good view of the city and plains.
Taj Bawdi
A water tank in memory of TajSultana,wife of Ibrahim Adil Shah II.Its front is made up of a majestic arch flanked by two octagonal towers.
