Noor Mahal

The history of Noor Mahal, a palace in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, is rich with stories and events.

 

Construction:

The palace was built between 1872 and 1875 by Nawab Sadiq Muhammad Khan IV, the ruler of Bahawalpur State, as a summer residence for his wife. The palace was designed by an Englishman named Mr. Heenan and incorporated elements of Corinthian, Islamic, and Indian subcontinent architecture styles. 

Legend:

One legend says that the palace was built for the Nawab's wife, but she only stayed one night because she saw a graveyard from her balcony. 

Ownership:

The palace was once owned by the royal Nawabs of Bahawalpur, but is now owned by the Pakistani Army and used as a state guest house. 

Additions:

Ameer Khan V, the successor to Ameer Khan IV, added a mosque to the palace in 1906. In 1933, the palace hosted a ceremony commemorating the union of Bahawalpur State with the British colonial government. 

Restoration:

The palace was thoroughly restored after it was taken over by the Pakistani Army, which helped preserve its character. 

Use:

The palace is now used as an officer's club for the Bahawalpur garrison, but it's also open to the public as a museum.