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Questions about Hiran Minar

Short answers, pulled from the story.

Why was Hiran Minar built?

Hiran Minar was built by Emperor Jahangir in 1606 as a memorial to his pet antelope. The antelope, which he called Hansraj, was accidentally killed during a hunting expedition, and Jahangir ordered the 30-meter tower erected in its honor.

Where is Hiran Minar located in Pakistan?

Hiran Minar is located in Sheikhupura, in the Punjab province of Pakistan, about 40 kilometers northwest of Lahore. It stands near Sheikhupura Fort and is accessible from Lahore via the M2 Motorway.

How tall is the Hiran Minar minaret?

The Hiran Minar minaret stands 30 meters tall. It is circular in form, divided into six tiers of different heights, and topped by a flat top with a parapet wall. Inside, a spiral staircase of 108 steps leads to the summit.

Which Mughal emperor built Hiran Minar?

Mughal Emperor Jahangir ordered the Hiran Minar minaret built in 1606. The complex was later expanded under Shah Jahan, who added an octagonal pavilion connected to the minaret by a causeway standing on 21 pointed arched pillars.

Is Hiran Minar on the UNESCO World Heritage list?

Hiran Minar and the Tank Sheikhupura are on the Provisional List of UNESCO World Heritage. The complex was also proclaimed protected under the Ancient Monuments Reservation Act of 1904, receiving that status in 1916.

What is the large pool at Hiran Minar and how was it used?

The rectangular pool at Hiran Minar measures 229 meters by 273 meters and was part of a Mughal hunting reserve. Brick ramps at the center of each side allowed wild game to access the water, drawing animals within range of hunters. A channel from the Aik rivulet supplied the tank with water during the Mughal era.

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