Along the motorway heading towards Multan, on the outskirts of Lahore, is the historic and magnificent structure from late years of the Mughal Era – Chauburji. At one time, this beautifully constructed gateway opened up into a beautiful garden full of color and life.
On the gateway itself we can see an inscription that states that the Mughal Princess Zeb-un-Nissa, daughter of Aurangzeb Alamgir, had this gateway built in 1646 A.D, making this gateway 369 years old. Wow!
Today the gardens no longer exist, and Chauburji has become a roundabout to control traffic. Chauburji gets it name from the four minarets that make up the entrance – ‘Chau’ meaning four and ‘Burj’ meaning tower.
Let’s take a look at this historical monument that still stands:
1. Chauburji – Standing tall in the 1880s – a place for the citizens of the city to visit even then and enjoy its beauty
2. In the earthquake of 1843, one of the uniquely designed minarets was destroyed. It was restored in 1960 to look like the other three.
3. The design of the gateway is simple and elegant with impressive titles placed to add color and give it grace, a testament to the craftsmanship of the Mughal Era
4. A dazzling view of the Chauburji Gateway at night. Illuminated by lights, it stands proud and tall with countless stories to tell.
5. Where pedestrians can take cover in its shadow during the long hot summer months – where friends will meet and gather – a truly spectacular monument
6. Over time, it became one of the most busiest roundabouts providing motorist a view of the splendor of history during the busy commutes
7. For the locals in the area, Chauburji was their Big Ben or Notre Dame – a symbol of pride and honor
8. Today it faces the progress of man and a city that is expanding at an astonishing pace – it fights to survive
9. Chauburji a landmark that is often overlooked and sometimes even forgotten and it shouldn’t be. It is a part of history and an era that no longer is. For this reason alone,it should be preserved for future generations so they too can appreciate the beauty that once was
What’s your opinion on old buildings? Should we ensure their preservation or just let them be? Let us know in the comments below.
