Jama Masjid, India

Situated in the center of the old Delhi, Jama Masjid was contructed by Emperor Shahjahan between 1644 and 1658. Constructed in yellow sandstone, it reflects the architectural style of both Hindu and Muslim. It stands on 260 pillars, supporting 15 domes at varying elevations. The mosque was originally called the Masjid-i-Jahanuma or "Mosque commanding a view of the world". This part of Delhi till now exudes the old-world tradition of Mughal era.

Obdurate Architecture
The Mosque was planed and designed by Ostad Khalil, a great sculptor of that era. Emperor Shahjahan built Jama Masjid at the cost of Rs 10 crore and it can be called as the replica of Moti Masjid in Agra. The premises of the South Minar are 1076-sq-ft wide where 25,000 devotees at a time may sit together for namaz. The structure was placed on a high platform so that its magnificent facade would be visible from all the adjoining areas. It's an austere, yet, a beautiful building.

Just like other buildings of Shahjahanabad, this one was also built with red sandstone. White marble has also been used extensively, specially in the three domes and has been inlaid with stripes of black. The slender minarets grace the facade, one on each side, rising to a height of 130-feet. The eastern gate was reserved for the Emperor when he used to arrive here every Friday and on Id.

Religious Center
The main Prayer Hall on the west side, fronted by a series of high arches and topped with marble domes, houses a niche in a wall that shelters the prayer leader. Worshipers use this hall on most days but on Fridays and other holy days, the courtyard is full of devotees offering Namaaz. Near the north gate of the Mosque stands a cupboard containing a collection of Muhammad's relics - Korans written on deerskin, a red beard-hair of the prophet, his sandals and his footprint, embedded in a marble slab.