Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb is one of Agra’s most elegant and historically significant monuments, often called the “Baby Taj” because it is considered a precursor to the Taj Mahal. Located on the eastern bank of the Yamuna River, this beautiful mausoleum was built between 1622 and 1628 by Empress Nur Jahan in memory of her father, Mirza Ghiyas Beg, who held the title Itmad-ud-Daula (Pillar of the State) during the Mughal period. It was the first Mughal tomb constructed entirely from white marble, marking a major shift from red sandstone architecture.

The monument is renowned for its delicate pietra dura (parchin kari) inlay work, where semi-precious stones like jasper, onyx, lapis lazuli, and topaz are intricately set into marble to create floral and geometric patterns. The tomb stands in the center of a well-planned charbagh garden, symbolizing paradise, with water channels and symmetrical pathways. Its fine jali screens, slender minarets, and refined proportions reflect a sense of intimacy and grace rather than grand scale.

Architecturally and artistically, Itmad-ud-Daula’s Tomb represents a transition in Mughal design and strongly influenced the construction of the Taj Mahal. Beyond its architectural beauty, the monument tells a personal story of love, respect, and remembrance, making it a must-visit heritage site in Agra and an important chapter in India’s Mughal history