Lucknow, the bustling capital city of the state of Uttar Pradesh, is dotted with British colonial buildings, Raj-era monuments, the Residency ruins and two magnificent mausoleums.
Today it is an important centre of commerce, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, technology and the arts. It has always been renowned as a multicultural and forward-thinking city and was the cultural capital of North India in the 18th and 19th centuries. The city rose to prominence as the home of the Nawabs of Avadh who controlled the region after the decline of the Mughal empire and the urban planning is an amalgamation of the ideas of its many emperors. Most of the city’s buildings of historical interest date from this period.
The Shiite-Nawab style is epitomised by impressive entrance gateways emblazoned with their royal two-fish icon. These mighty structures were erected throughout the city alongside ostentatious tombs. As patrons of the culinary, visual and musical arts, they nurtured a culture of dance and music that is still alive today. The city was made notorious by the Siege of Lucknow during the Indian Uprising of 1857.
Lucknow’s reputation as a city of diverse culture, opulent living and decadent cuisine has continued to this day.
Highlights
The ruins of the historic Residency | Enjoying some of the rich local dishes | Taking in a live show
Interesting facts
− It is the location of many social and cultural institutions of national significance
− It is also known as the Golden City of India, Shiraz-i-Hind and the Constantinople of the East
