Rumi Darwaza

Between the two mosques of Bara and Chota Imambara in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, lies the magnificent Rumi Darwaza (Gate). It is an excellent representation of the Awadhi style of architecture, often known as the Lucknow School of Architecture, and was built in 1784 under the reign of Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula. The Nawabs of Awadh chose this design as a way to maintain the Mughal legacy while incorporating modern ideas and materials into their buildings. 

Rumi Darwaza, also renowned as the Turkish Gate, is one of Uttar Pradesh's historic landmarks due to its striking resemblance to the ancient Constantinople doorway Bab-i-Humayun, now located in what is modern-day Turkey. Its towering 60-foot height previously marked the gateway to the ancient city of Lucknow. In modern times, however, the gate stands idly by while auto rickshaws, bicycles, and cars pass beneath it. 

What to see at Rumi Darwaza? 

- Most Mughal structures were constructed of red sandstone, with bricks and lime utilized for the rest of the building. That is also why this building has so much attention to detail. 

- It has beautiful carvings of flowers and other motifs. There is a staircase leading up to the chhatri (umbrella) on top of the building, but access is currently restricted. The fact that there was once a lantern perched atop the building is intriguing. In addition, little water jets would shoot out of the intricately carved flower buds that lined the sides of the arch. 

- It resembles more of a structure than a gate due to its four corner minarets and its long, narrow form on either side. 

- If you think this entrance is stunning during the day, wait until nightfall, when it is illuminated and takes on a whole new splendor. 

- From Rumi Darwaza to Chattar Manzil, travel through the road that has the most breathtaking scenery of the city you will ever see.