Bara Imambada

The Bara Imambada is one of the most prominent heritage sites of Lucknow.

Its central hall is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world except for the galleries in the interior, there is no woodwork in the entire structure! This makes the architecture unique and the roof has been put together with interlocking bricks without using a beam or a girder. It is now used by Shia Muslims for the purpose of Azadari although it is accessible to all.

This structure has deep underground passages which have been blocked now and a staircase from outside leads to a series of labyrinths known as Bhool-Bhulaiya. It is a confusing knot of almost a thousand of snaking passages which is why visitors are advised to visit only with authorised guides who are available there at the compound.