Photo Story
Chauburji

Photo Story

Chauburji

Chauburji is the surviving gateway of a vanished Mughal garden built in 1646 on the left bank of the Ravi in Lahore. Known for its four octagonal minarets that uniquely widen at the top. It was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan's daughter Jahan Ara Begum.

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Chauburji in Lahore was built in 1646 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

Chauburji in Lahore was built in 1646 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

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It served as the monumental gateway to a grand garden believed to be patronised by Jahanara Begum.

It served as the monumental gateway to a grand garden believed to be patronised by Jahanara Begum.

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The name Chauburji means four towers, referring to the monument’s distinctive minarets.

The name Chauburji means four towers, referring to the monument’s distinctive minarets.

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The structure showcases Mughal, Timurid, and Persian influences with vibrant Kashikari tilework.

The structure showcases Mughal, Timurid, and Persian influences with vibrant Kashikari tilework.

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An inscription references Sahib‑e‑Zebinda and Begam‑e‑Dauran, titles linked to Jahanara Begum.

An inscription references Sahib‑e‑Zebinda and Begam‑e‑Dauran, titles linked to Jahanara Begum.

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Although once part of a lush pleasure garden, the surrounding garden has disappeared over time.

Although once part of a lush pleasure garden, the surrounding garden has disappeared over time.

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The building features iwans, muqarnas, Quranic calligraphy, and unique widening minaret forms.

The building features iwans, muqarnas, Quranic calligraphy, and unique widening minaret forms.

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One tower collapsed in the 1846 earthquake and was later restored in the 1960s.

One tower collapsed in the 1846 earthquake and was later restored in the 1960s.

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Today, Chauburji stands on Multan Road as a protected heritage monument of Punjab.

Today, Chauburji stands on Multan Road as a protected heritage monument of Punjab.

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