Gol Gumbaz

Gol Gumbaz is the tomb of Mohammed Adil Shah which was constructed in the 17th century by the seventh ruler of Adilshahi dynasty. Gol Gumbaz is situated at Bijapur in Karnataka. The place is 530 kilometers away from Bangalore, the capital city of Karnataka.

Gol Gumbaz is a fine piece of Islamic architectural style. The Gol Gumbaz  has a floor area of 1700 square meter, a height of 51 meter and diameter of 37 meters with 3 meter thick walls. The construction of this large tomb took around 20 years to complete.

Another significant feature of the Gol Gumbaz is its central dome which stands without the support of pillars. Also the central dome of Gol Gumbaz is the second largest dome in the world after the dome of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome.

Gol Gumbaz has another amazing feature. Any sound at this place echoes for over eleven times. Moreover you can even hear the tick of a watch across a distance of 37 meter in the vast dome. You can enjoy the picturesque landscape of the region near Gol Gumbaz from its terrace which can be reached through the steps across the narrow passages.

Apart from the burial chambers of Mohammed Adil Shah, his two wives, his mistress Ramba, his daughter and grandson, the complex of Gol Gumbaz also houses a mosque, a Naqqar Khana, a gateway and a dharamshala. The building in front of the Gol Gumbaz has been turned into a museum that contains all the history about the royal past related to Adilshah dynasty who constructed Gol Gumbaz.