1. Taj Mahal, India
Few monuments in the world leave visitors as awestruck as the Taj Mahal. This white marble structure is a sight to behold, so it’s no surprise it has become one of the most recognizable monuments in the world.
The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum built to symbolize eternal love. Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this marvel of art in 1632 to hold the remains of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The mausoleum was completed 16 years after her death. Another 18 years would pass before the emperor joined his late wife in a crypt in this extraordinary resting place.
2. Shah-i-Zinda, Uzbekistan
Although technically a collection of mausoleums, Shah-i-Zinda deserves a spot on this list for its world-famous intricate tilework in hundreds of shades of blue.
Shah-i-Zinda was built over eight centuries, during which it transformed into a cemetery consisting of over 20 buildings. Today, it houses the remains of many notable historical figures. Legend has it that Qutham ibn Abbas, Prophet Muhammad’s cousin, is buried at the site. This legend is responsible for the name of this architectural and cultural wonder, which translates to “the living king.”
3. Jaswant Thada, India
Jaswant Thada was built in memory of a 19th-century maharaja, Jaswant Singh II. It’s a perfect example of Rajput architecture, characterized by detailed carvings in white marble. Its grandeur even earned it the nickname of the Taj Mahal of Marwar.
Thanks to its classic beauty and fusion architecture, this monument is undoubtedly the area’s focal point. However, its surroundings are no less impressive, with lush floral gardens, carved gazebos, and a small lake.
Although Jaswant Thada is only a memorial site, it is widely considered one of the most beautiful mausoleums in the world.
4. The Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor, China
Spanning over 20 square miles, the Mausoleum of the First Qin Emperor is the largest in the world. However, the size isn’t the only impressive aspect of this extraordinary site.
This mausoleum was built over 38 years, from 246 to 208 B.C. It houses the first emperor of China, Qin Shi Huang, who was known for unifying the country and constructing its Great Wall. Surrounding the emperor’s dome-shaped tomb are thousands of life-size terracotta warriors, horses, and chariots.
The terracotta army makes this mausoleum one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
5. Mausoleum of Hadrian, Italy
The Mausoleum of Hadrian, often called Castel Sant’Angelo, is a towering structure commissioned by the Roman Emperor Hadrian. It was initially built as a burial place for the emperor and his family. It went on to store the ashes of the succeeding emperors.
This unique attraction blends traditional Roman architecture with innovative elements, making it a gem of Rome’s skyline.
A Symbol of Eternal Memory
Mausoleums are towering testaments to the eternal memory of those who came before us. If you’re looking to build a beautiful mausoleum to honor a loved one or as a family tomb in Los Angeles, it can be commissioned from cemetery Hollywood Forever. Contact us for more information.
