Love at first sight. Such a sensation may exist for those who approach the purely white, marble Taj Mahal and are overtaken by its immense size and beauty [Fig. 1]. The Taj Mahal can be referred to as a symbol of eternal love since Shah Jahan built it for his princess upon her death in 1631 A.D. Located in Agra, India, and considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Taj Mahal was built by Prince Shah Jahan as a mausoleum for his wife Empress Mumtaz Mahal. The funerary complex is located on a plot of land along the banks of the Yamuna River and it encompasses more than forty-two acres of land. Shah Jahan is said to have bought this piece of land either for its peacefulness or for its spectacular view. The source of the name "Taj Mahal" is unclear, however, it is believed that the name translates into "Crown Palace," and it is believed that is what given this name as an abbreviation of the empress' name, Mumtaz Mahal. As all the small details come together, one is overtaken by the costliness and large quantities of materials used, from the marble to the gemstones.
             The first image that might come to one's mind at the mention of the Taj Mahal is the central domed building, however, true appreciation cannot be reached until one is introduced to the complementary structures [Fig. 2]. Although this is where the tomb of Mumtaz Mahal is located, the funerary complex is composed of many more surrounding structures. In its entirety, the Taj Mahal consists of the entrance garden, the mosque with its mihman-khana (rest-house), six octagonal pavilions, as well as platforms, fountains, and greenery [Fig. 3]. As one enters through the main gate, the jilokhana, their eyes are directed towards the central dome, which is framed by a central arch [Fig. 4]. The central marble dome is planted on a huge white marble terrace that itself is founded on a high red sandstone base, which is more than one hundred feet high [Fig. 2]. Framing ...