10 Fun Facts You Never Knew About Your Favorite Landmarks

8. The Taj Mahal: The Legend of the Black Taj

The Taj Mahal, an architectural masterpiece and symbol of eternal love, is steeped in legends and myths. One of the most intriguing stories is the story of the Black Taj, a proposed mirror image of the white marble mausoleum, which was supposedly intended to be built across the Yamuna River. According to legend, Shah Jahan, the Mughal emperor who commissioned the Taj Mahal, planned to construct a second mausoleum in black marble for himself, creating a dramatic contrast with the white Taj Mahal. While there is no concrete evidence to support the existence of the Black Taj, the legend persists, fueled by historical accounts and the discovery of darkened foundations across the river. Some historians suggest that the Black Taj was a metaphorical concept, reflecting Shah Jahan's desire to create a harmonious balance between life and death. Whether fact or fiction, the legend of the Black Taj adds a layer of mystery to the Taj Mahal, inviting us to ponder the ambitions and aspirations of its creator.