Discovering the Charminar: The Iconic Symbol of Hyderabad
Charminar – The Soul of Hyderabad If there's one monument that perfectly captures the spirit of Hyderabad, it's the Charminar. Located in the heart of the old city, Charminar is not just a historical site – it's the beating heart of Hyderabad's culture, commerce, and charm. History of Charminar Built in 1591 AD by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, Charminar was constructed to commemorate the end of a deadly plague that had gripped the city. The name Charminar translates to “Four Minarets,” derived from the Urdu words Char (four) and Minar (towers). Legend has it that the location was chosen at the very center of Hyderabad, where the old city’s four cardinal roads converge. Architectural Grandeur Charminar stands tall with four grand arches facing each cardinal direction, supporting four towering minarets that rise to a height of 56 meters. The structure is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture with Persian influences. Made of gran...