5 Surprising Facts About City Of Love, Agra

Agra, often dubbed the "City of Love," is renowned for the iconic Taj Mahal, among other historical and cultural landmarks. Here are five surprising facts about Agra:

While the Taj Mahal is widely recognised for its pristine white marble, its colour can change throughout the day. At sunrise, it appears pinkish, while it glows a brilliant white under the midday sun. During sunset, it takes on a golden hue, creating a mesmerising spectacle.

Legend has it that Emperor Shah Jahan, who commissioned the Taj Mahal in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal planned to build a mirror-image black marble mausoleum for himself on the opposite bank of the Yamuna River. However, this structure was never completed, and its existence remains a subject of speculation and intrigue.

While the Taj Mahal is undoubtedly Agra's most famous attraction, the city is home to several other hidden gems. These include the Agra Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history dating back to the Mughal era, and Fatehpur Sikri a magnificent fortified city built by Emperor Akbar.

Agra is renowned for its unique sweet delicacy known as "petha." Made from ash gourd (winter melon) and flavoured with sugar and various spices, petha comes in a variety of flavours, including plain, saffron, and rose. It's a popular treat among locals and visitors alike.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Agra boasts a rich cultural heritage that encompasses music, dance, and traditional crafts. The city is known for its vibrant folk music and dance performances, as well as its intricate handicrafts such as marble inlay work, embroidery, and carpet weaving.