Palace Choumahala
   Photo: Palace Choumahala

Choumahala palace complex, located in one of the most famous cities of India - Hyderabad, the official residence of Nizams (ruler) of Hyderabad state, which included the territory of the present state of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra. All of the most important ceremonies and festivities were held in this complex.

Construction of this architectural masterpiece began in 1750, when the Nizam was Salabat Joong, but eventually was suspended. Construction work resumed after more than a hundred years - in 1857 under the rule of Asaf Jah V, or as it is more commonly called Afzal al-Davlahe, and continued until his death in 1869. Initially the territory of the palace complex occupies an area of ​​180 thousand square meters. meters, but over time, this area has decreased, and today Choumahala takes only 57 thousand square meters. meters.

Translated from the Persian word "choumahala" means "four palaces" .  Because such a long period of creating this magnificent building is a unique blend of architectural styles and trends .  The complex has two courtyards huge: north and south, where gardens and fountains equipped .  The oldest part is the southern Choumahala courtyard, decorated in neo-classical style .  The buildings that surround it, divided into four parts: Afzal Mahal, Mahtab Mahal Tahniyat Mahal and Aftab Mahal .  North courtyard was built later and it housed the state "administration" .  This part of the complex is made in Islamic style with lots of domes, arches and ornate Persian .  Other attractions Choumahala appear Clock Tower, board room, as well as the "heart" of the complex - Khilvat Mubarak, a huge hall for the ceremonies, decorated with 19 stunning Belgian crystal chandeliers .

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