Architecture of Lucknow

The Lucknow School of Architecture was an experiment by the resurgent Nawabs of Awadh. It was an attempt to preserve the Mughal school of architecture by experimenting with different materials and innovating new concepts.

Among the extant architecture there are religious buildings such as imambaras, mosques and other Islamic shrines, and secular structures like enclosed gardens, baradaris, palace complexes.

The following are distinct features of Lucknow architecture :

  • Use of Fish as an auspicious and decorative motif especially on Gates
  • The use of Chattar ( umbrella ) as in the Chattar Manzil
  • The Baradari ( the twelve doorway pavilions)
  • Rumi Darwaza, the signature structure of Lucknow
  • Enclosed Baghs like Sikandar Bagh
  • Vaulted halls such as the Asafi Imambara
  • The labyrinth Bhulbhulaiyan
  • Taikhanas
  • Use of lakhauri bricks.

Influences

The monuments in Lucknow have been influences by various cultures, and religions throughout the years. Dating back to the 18th century, Lucknow also named Awadh was one of the richest semi-independent states under the Mughal rule, and predominantly ruled by Muslim Shiites of Persian origin known as “Nawabs”.[1] Being defeated by the British Imperials forces, the nawabs made an alliance with the East India Company until it was annexed in 1856.[1] It is for this reason that you will see various influences form Persia, Turkey, Europe (such as France). Its geography also plays a majour role in determining the type of structures built. Lucknow is based on fertile land, and the land below the Himalayan foothills is known as 'Terai' or moist land.[2]

References
  1. Casci, Simonetta (2002). "Lucknow Nawabs: Architecture and Identity". Economic and Political Weekly. 37 (36): 3711–3714. ISSN 0012-9976.
  2. Singh, Shalini (n.d.). "Cultural tourism in the Awadh region with special reference to Lucknow a study in tourism and recreation geography". University.


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