First distinct example of Mughal architecture inspired by Persian architecture, is the tomb of Humayun, in Delhi, built by his widow, Begha Begum. This tomb has provided the prototype, followed by architects who designed the Mausoleum of Jahangir at Shahdara, Lahore, as well as the celebrated Taj Mahal, at Agra.
The tomb itself is in the centre of a large garden, laid out in char bagh (four-fold) style, with pools joined by channels. The main entrance is on the south side, and there is another entrance on the west side.
Red sandstone, the double-storeyed structure of the mausoleum rises over a high square terrace, raised over a series of cells that are like a musical composition.
The octagonal form of the central chamber containing the cenotaph is inspired by Syrian and earlier Islamic models. It is for the first time that pink sandstone and white are used with admirable effect.
