~Bara Imambara~ 01.12.12

~Bara Imambara~

The Bara Imambara was
built in the year 1784 by
the fourth Nawab of

Awadh known as Asaf-ud-
Daula. It was built as a
part of a relief project for a
major famine that took
place in the year 1784.
The Bara Imambara of
Lucknow is one of the
most famous monuments
of this place. It is also
called Asfi Imambara after
the name of the Nawab of
Lucknow who got it
constructed. It is an
important place of
worship for the Muslims
who come here every year
to celebrate the religious
festival of Muharram.

The Bara Imambara has a
unique style of
construction. The central
hall of Bara Imambara is
said to be the largest
arched hall in the world.
The hall measures 50
meters long and goes
upto a height of 15
meters. What makes the
construction unique is the
fact that the blocks have
been put together with
interlocking system of
bricks and there has been
absolutely no use of
girders and beams. The
roof stands steady till date
without any pillars to
support it.

The Bara Imambara is
known for its incredible
maze called Bhulbhulaiya.
This is located in the upper
floor of the monument. A
stairway leads to this
level. One can view a
scenic panorama of the
city from the top of this
monument, which is
absolutely breath-taking.
The Bhulbhulaiya is a must
see and the best way to
find your way out without
getting lost is by hiring a
guide. It is said that great
treasures are hidden in the
secret tunnels of this
maze.

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