Khan-i-Khanan Tomb

Though not a small structure by any means, the monument seems to have had alternating periods of attention & neglect. While the pathways & lawns are well maintained, the stonework on the exterior is in quite a dilapidated condition (three major chunks were stripped off for use in Safdarjung's Tomb in 1753). The profile of the monument, however, with its sweeping arches & cenotaphs, draws one in instantly.

The tomb was built by Khan-i-Khana's wife in 1598 & the poet-cum-administrator was buried here after his demise in 1627. Red sandstone is the chief material, relieved by the use of buff sandstone & marble. The sarcophagus is peaceful & surprisingly airy, befitting of a poet's sepulcher.  There is an underground chamber but it is usually locked. The motif is very similar to the Humayun's Tomb in the vicinity & the remains of the decorations reveal incised as well as painted plaster.