Monday, July 6, 2009

More Sites from Delhi


















On July 6, we loaded up on the bus and headed out for sightseeing. First stop was the Qutab Minar. What the Eiffel Tower is to Paris, this monument is to Delhi. It is a 73 meter high tower that marks the site of the first Muslim kingdom in North India and was established in 1193. (pic 1) There were many Indians at this location and several would come up to me asking if they could have a picture made with me. I agreed and then asked to take a picture of them or their family. (pic 2) The Indian people we are meeting seem to be very hospitable as well as curious and inquistive about us and the United States. We left there and drove by the Bahai Temple of Worship known as the Lotus Temple. It is shaped like a giant lotus flower and is said to be one of the most complicated constructions in the world. (pic 3) My favorite of all we saw on this day was the Humayun Tomb. It is referred to as the prototype for the Taj Mahal and was built 90 years before the Taj (1565) by a widow as a tomb for her husband. This beautiful structure is built of red sandstone and white marble and has a much more masculine look than the Taj. The large garden areas (and shade) make for a wonderfully peaceful setting. The afternoon was spent with a lecture by a historian and former director of the National Museum. He accompanied us on our visit to the museum where we saw many artifacts from Indus Valley archaeological digs, as well as textiles and many Buddhist and Hindu statues. 'Another Indian dinner and back to the hotel. I'm enjoying the food even though my lips and mouth burn at least once per meal!




























2 comments:

  1. love the picture of the Bahai House of Worship.

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  2. I am loving following along with you! Penny V

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