BARA IMAMBARA
Great tomb of a great Shiite saint with a central hall 50 m long and 15 m high, a major attraction in the city
This site is the major attraction of the city. As its name suggests, it is the great tomb (bara) of a great Shiite saint (Imam). Built in 1784 by Asaf-ud-Daula, it is of gigantic size: the central hall is 50 m long and 15 m high. The vault above the burial chamber stands without keystones or beams, it would be the most beautiful example in the world. The interior is vast but rather empty, it is definitely more interesting to explore the other monuments of the site. Note that you will have to leave your shoes in the checkroom to visit them.
A staircase on the left of the building leads to the Bhool Bhulbhulaiya, a rather complex labyrinth made of balconies, passages on several levels and 489 identical porches! We always find the entrance, but things get worse to leave by the exit provided for this purpose. From there, the sight on the site and the big mosque Asfi, the only monument closed to the public, is quite simply splendid.
The Shahi Baoli is a well with levels which sinks on five floors. The guides will explain you very well how the reflection of the water was used for the defense of the site! The claustrophobic will enjoy a superb view from the top of the Bara Imambara. From there, what can we see?
The Rumi Darwaza. This door, 18 m high, was built in 1786 by the same Asaf-ud-Daula. Its name is associated with its origin: it is the replica of the gate of Istanbul (Byzantium was considered as the Rome of the East, hence the name "Rumi", which remained).
