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Gol Gumbaz Travel Guide

Gol Gumbaz - Bijapur

Bijapur located 530-km north-west of Bangalore, was known as "The city of Victory" during the reign of Chalukyas. Bijapur experienced a great burst of architectural activity under the Adi Shahi Dynasty. The Adil Shahi himself was an art lover who did tremendous efforts in expending art activities.

Bijapur's greatest travel attraction comprises of Islamic architecture - minarets, domes and resonant of burial chambers all showcasing the panorama of the Arabian Nights.
Today Bijapur has over 50 masks, more than 20 tombs and a number of palaces.


¤ The Magnificent Tomb

It is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah constructed during (1627 -56), the seventh ruler of Adilshahi dynasty. The king himself started the construction of this colossal tomb that took about 20 years to complete.

The tomb, with a floor area of 1700 sq.m, 51m in height and 37m diameter with walls 3 m thick, gives a massive appearance. The central dome is the second biggest dome in the world next to the dome of St Peter's Basalica in Rome. The unique feature of the dome is its erection, without any support of pillars. The acoustical occurrence of this dome is such that a sound is echoed eleven times over. Slightest whisper, the tick of a watch or any kind of movement can be heard across a distance of 37 m in its vast gallery. From the gallery around the dome, one can reach up the turret passages by climbing the steps and can enjoy the panoramic view of the beautiful city down along with its vast landscapes.

Under the dome are the tombs of the Sultan, his two wives, his mistress Ramba, his daughter and grandson.


¤ A Loving Fairy Tale

Ones Adil Shah along with his beloved visited the tomb. While looking through the balcony encircling the tomb Adil Shah was extremely fascinated by the amazing, nine storied depth of the central hall. The king, in the mood of making fun, thought of testing his ladylove. He said, "my lady, I know you love me a lot, would you do anything for my sake", "Yes my lord" said the beautiful. "If so" said the Shah facetiously, "can you jump down this balcony for my sake?" His love at once jumped down to show her eternal love. The heart-broken king was under utmost shock, he accursed himself for the blunder he did and wept for the rest of his life.

The splendor and perfection of this dome must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Lovers come here to whisper (aloud!), singers to enjoy the stereophonic effect and children to test the power of their laughter.

The building complex includes a mosque, a Naqqar Khana, a gateway and a dharmashala. The edifice in front of the tomb has been converted into a museum. The virgin magical dint of the Golgumbaz becomes quite visible when heard in serenity.