The construction of the Taj Mahal was a massive undertaking that spanned over several years. Here's a breakdown of the timeline:
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Comissioned: 1631 - Mughal emperor Shah Jahan commissioned the building of the Taj Mahal in memory of his third wife Mumtaz Mahal.
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Construction Started: 1632 - Construction began the following year.
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Mausoleum Essentially Completed: 1643 - The core structure of the mausoleum, the most recognizable part of the Taj Mahal, was essentially finished by 1643.
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Surrounding Buildings and Gardens Completed: 1653 - The entire Taj Mahal complex, encompassing the gardens, mosque, and guest house, was believed to be finalized around 1653.
So, while the mausoleum itself was largely completed by 1643, the entire project, including the surrounding structures and landscaping, took an estimated 22 years to finish.