CENTRAL GROUP OF MONUMENTS

Mandu's central group of monuments comprises three sites on either side of the village square.

Jama Masjid. This imposing mosque is one of the finest remnants of the Afghan style in India, as evidenced by its pure, compact lines. Its construction was undertaken by Hoshang Shah in 1406, who is said to have been inspired by the Umayyad mosque in Damascus. It was not completed until 1454 under the aegis of Muhammad Khalji. You can admire the mihrab, or central niche to which the worshipper turns for prayer, decorated with Arabic characters featuring a quotation from the Koran.

Mausoleum of Hoshang Shah. Located just behind the mosque, this mausoleum is said to be the first monument built entirely in marble. Shah Jahan sent four of his architects to study the building before starting work on the Taj Mahal. Inside, light filters through the jali, or openwork windows, giving this immense tomb a touch of mysticism.

Ashrafi Mahal. All that remains of this palace of golden coins are a few ruins, which stand opposite the mosque in the village square. Muhammad Shah had his tomb built, and enlarged it considerably to convert it into a madrasa (Koranic school). The site also included a seven-storey victory tower, of which only the base remains, and large fallen boulders at its feet. For those who must restrict themselves, entry to this site is free.