A Handbook to Agra and the Taj: Sikandra, Fatehpur-Sikri and the Neighbourhood

In 1558, Akbar established Agra (formerly known as Akbarabad) as the capital of the Mughal Empire. This city was founded by Sikandar Lodi in 1504-5, but it gained prominence under the Mughals. This book describes the numerous structures built by the Mughals and later till the 1857 Mutiny. The author conducts a study around the Mughal monuments in Agra, Fatehpur Sikri, and Sikandra region, such as Agra Fort, Fatehpur Sikri complex, Taj Mahal, Itimad-ud-Daulah’s tomb, and other minor attractions. This book primarily deals with the architectural styles adopted by the Mughals during Akbar’s reign and his successors. This is of greater interest to students, researchers, and instructors interested in medieval Indian architecture, Indo-Islamic architecture, and archaeology. About the Author E.B. Havell (1861-1934) was an arts administrator, art historian, and author. He led the foundation of the Bengal School of Art, the Indian Society of Oriental Art, and also India Society. He authored several books, such as Benares, the Sacred City: Sketches of Hindu Life and Religion; Monograph on stone-carving in Bengal; Essays on Indian Art, Industry & Education; Indian Sculpture and Painting; The Basis for Artistic and Industrial Revival in India; Indian Architecture: Its Psychology, Structure, and History from the First Muhammadan Invasion to the Present Day; The Ancient and Medieval Architecture of India: A Study of Indo-Aryan Civilization; The Ideals of Indian Art; A Handbook of Indian Art; Himalayas in Indian Art, etc.