Alai Darwaza - grand gateway in the Qutub Complex, Delhi

The Qutub complex, Delhi has many historical monuments that speak volumes of Islamic architecture; one being Alai Darwaza built in the 14th century.

On the north of Qutub Minar in the Qutub Complex lies an impressive and majestic gateway called
 
Alai Darwaza, Delhi. Alamy


 Alai Darwaza constructed in traditional Islamic architecture.  This was built by  Aladdin Khilji in 1311 AD as  part of his extension of the Quwwat-ul-Islam mosque. This structure is made of  exquisite inlaid marble decorations and latticed stone panels. The Alai Darwaza was one of the four grand gateways built by the Sultan; the other three could not be completed because of his death n AD 1316.

Alai Dharwaza. Wikimedia Commons
Considered as one of the most important buildings of the  Delhi Sultanate period,  the main gateway from southern side of the Mosque brings out the skills and workmanship of the local artisans and Turkish workers. It was built using red sandstone while white marble was used on the exterior walls.

Alai Dharwaza, Delhi www.makemytrip.com
The square-shaped structure with a large dome on top,follows the symmetrical construction.   Alai Darwaza follows principles of symmetrical construction. Its outer length is 17.22 meters, its walls are 3.3 meters thick, and the inner  length is 10.6 meters. The dome is very plain and conspicuous whereas the walls are elaborately carved. The northern arch of the Alai Darwaza has a semicircular shape, and the  arches have the typical horseshoe / Crescent Islamic design. The entrance gateways are adorned  with inscriptions from the Quran and floral motifs in white marble and red sandstone.

 Imam Zamin tomb is situated near the Alai Darwaza. Imam Zamin came to Delhi during the 15th century and was the imam of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque. Alai Dharwaza is located in the Qutub Complex.

 https://www.makemytrip.com/travel-guide/delhi/alai-darwaza-monuments.html