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Jama Masjid, Agra is one of the significant religious monuments of the city. Situated in Fatehpur Sikri nearby Agra, Jama Masjid is also referred to as Jami Masjid. It is considered to be the largest mosque in India; it was built in 1571 A.D, when Mughal Empire was ruled by Akbar the Great. The height of the mosque justifies its exalted purpose and it boasts of a large courtyard, built for the purpose of praying. Situated on the right of the mosque is Jammat Khana hall and the the Zenana Rauza, which is the tomb of the women of the royal household. Inside the complex of the mosque is also the shrine of the Sufi religious leader Sheikh Salim Chisti. Jama Masjid can be considered as an architectural marvel, the lattice marble screens of the tomb are astonishing in their craftsmanship. The entire mosque is adorned with inscriptions, inlaid geometric designs and colored tiles. The masque has been symmetrically proportioned and boasts of an austere beauty that perfectly suits the religious purpose of the building. The chief entrance of this landmark is referred as the Buland Darwaza and another entrance of the mosque is known as the Badshahi Darwaza. Beside the main prayer hall, you can see panels of beautifully inlaid sandstone that are reminiscent of the panels, which adorn the main gateway of the Jama Masjid. In fact these panels add a feminine touch to the mosque. The paintings, inlaid stones, carvings and glazed tiles further enrich the enthralling beauty of this religious landmark. Jama Masjid also comprises of a pillared Dalan, a beautiful 'Chhajja' and the 'Chhatri' on the roof. Jama Masjid is located opposite the Agra fort and oversees the Agra Fort railway station. It is conveniently located and can easily be accessed via the transportation facilities of the city. It is one of the major tourist attractions of the city and people from different corners of the city come to see this religious landmark.
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