CONTENTS:- I. Introduction: 1. Evolution of Indo-Muslim architecture; 2. History of Delhi; II. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque: 1. Introduction; 2. Historical anecdotes; 3. Structural features; 4. Hindu elements in Mosque; 5. Screened arches; 6. Iltutmish's extensions; 7. Allaudin Khilji's extensions; III. Iron pillar: 1. History; 2. Engineering design; 3. Iron; 4. Manufacturing methodology; 5. Corrosion resistance; IV. Qutub Minar: 1. Name; 2. Origin; 3. Purpose; 4. Construction history; 5. Engineering design; 6. Engineers of the monument; V. Other monuments: 1. Iltutmish Tomb; 2. Alai Darwaza; 3. Alai Minar; 4. Allaudin Khilji's Madrassa; 5. Minor monuments; 6. Non-existent monuments; VI. Lal Kot: 1. City; 2. Qila Rai Pithora; 3. Fortification; 4. Historical stories; 5. Anang Tal; Appendices: Inscriptions: 1. Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque; 2. Iron Pillar; 3. Qutub Minar; 4. Alai Darwaza; 5. Tomb of Imam Zamin; Select bibliography: 1. The Qutub complex; 2. Delhi Iron Pillar; 3. Indian History; 4. Ancient Indian iron metallurgy.
DESCRIPTION
The World Heritage Complex of the Qutub in New Delhi is home to several magnificent monuments that are classic examples of early Muslim architecture in India. The complete history and engineering of the archaeological structures at this site are explained in the present volume. The history of Delhi and the evolution of Indo-Islamic architecture is introduced briefly. The Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque, the famous 1600-year old Gupta-period corrosion resistant Iron Pillar located in its courtyard and the Qutub Minar are discussed in great detail. Other archaeological monuments described include Iltutmish's Tomb, the Alai Darwaza and Allaudin's Madrassa. The Lal Kot area is elaborated in the final section. Fascinating historical anecdotes and stories related to the complex are presented. All archaeological excavations at this site are reviewed to highlight significant finds. Profusely illustrated with maps, line drawings and photographs, the book embodies the latest researches on the subject and will fascinate not only the scholar and serious student but also the lay reader.