The Taj Mahal is the most famous example of Muslim architecture in India, and is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world. Located in Agra, near Delhi, and made of white marble, it was built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal. The Mughals were Islamic Turks whose powerful armies had gradually conquered Persia and northern India. They had a special love for Persian painting and and architecture. The design of the Taj expands on princely Persian prototypes. Thousands of artisans worked on the construction. Millions of people visit every year. (FLG)