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Charminar, from the courtyard of Mecca Masjid
This ornamental gateway built was by Muhammad Quli at the intersection of the two principal streets of his new capital. It was intended as the chief landmark and as a monumental entrance to the Qutb Shahi palace. Its imposing arched portals are flanked by columns of arched recesses. A complex cornice and parapet contain arcaded stories and geometrical screens. At the corners are high polygonal minarets each with four arcaded balconies and flattish domes.