Imambara Complex
Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, is certainly worth a visit because of its historical significance. A kilometer west of the British Residency lies the Bara Imambara. In 1784, Asaf-ud-Daula built the Bara Imambara.
This great vaulted hall is reputedly the largest room in the world (50 meters long and 15 meters high) unsupported by pillars. The hall, the great mosque and its two supporting minarets were built as a part of a famine relief project. Most of the underground passages are now blocked but an external stairway leads to the labyrinth on the upper floor known as the Bhulbhulaiya. In front of the Imambara is an impressive gateway, Rumi Darwaza. Beyond the gateway is the Husainabad Imambara. The main building contains the silver throne of the nawabs. Opposite the Husainabad Imambara is the Baradon (summer House) built by Ali Shah and now houses a small portrait gallery. The Jama Masjid to the west of the Imambara is one of the few in India closed to non-Muslims.
