Akbar, Emperor of India Often considered the true founder of Indias Mughal Empire, Akbar ruled from 1556

to 1605. His realm eventually stretched from Afghanistan to the Bay of Bengal, and from the Himalaya to the Godavari River. Akbar established an efficient administrative system, stimulated trade, encouraged the arts, and adopted a policy of religious tolerance.

Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh The city of Fatehpur Sikri was founded in 1570 in the south-west of Uttar Pradesh state, northern India, by the great Mughal emperor, Akbar. The mosque was founded as a tribute to Akbars spiritual adviser, Sahikh Salim, who was a hermit residing in the village of Sikri. The mosques colossal gateway is made out of sandstone and is one of Indias most remarkable architectural works. The palace of Akbars wife is nearby.

Akbar's Mausoleum The Mughal emperor Akbar, who founded the city of Agra in 1566, is buried in the great mausoleum at nearby Sikandra. The building unusually contains Hindu, Buddhist, and Christian motifs within the overall Islamic features of the design, such as the four minarets. This view shows the Buland Darwaza (Gate of Magnificence), the southern gate of the mausoleum.