Tomb of Sher Shah Suri, 16th-century royal tomb in Sasaram, India
The Tomb of Sher Shah Suri is an octagonal sandstone mausoleum rising about 122 feet (37 meters) high on an artificial island in Sasaram. The structure spans three stories and is crowned by a large central dome with four corner pavilions.
The mausoleum was completed in 1545 to honor Sher Shah Suri, a powerful 16th-century ruler who shaped North India. He was known for administrative reforms that left a lasting impact on the region.
The walls display Quranic inscriptions and geometric patterns typical of 16th-century Islamic design. Visitors notice these decorations while moving through the different levels of the building.
The mausoleum is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India and is open to visitors. A causeway built in 1914 connects the artificial island to the mainland, allowing foot access.
The mausoleum was the largest tomb structure of its period in India and showcases a remarkable architectural solution. The artificial island surrounded by water was a rarely seen innovation for such buildings in that era.
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