openings crowned by a semi-dome. The total height of the Gate above the pavement is 176 ft. A Persian inscription on the eastern archway of the Buland Darwaza records Akbar's conquest of Uttar Pradesh and the victory in Gujarat in 1573. Inscription On the main gateway, an Islamic inscription written in Persian reads "Isa (Jesus), son of Mary said: 'The world is a Bridge, pass over it, but build no houses upon it. He who hopes for a day may hope for eternity, but the World endures but an hour. Spend it in prayer for the rest is unseen.'"'Isa was advising his followers not to consider the world as a permanent home and hope for worldly things, as human life is of short duration. Verses from the Quran have been carved in the Naskh (script) along the top. These were drawn by Khwaja Hussain Chishti, a disciple of Sheikh Salim Chishti. Purpose Buland Darwaza was not a part of the original design of the Jama Masjid, it was erected by Akbar to celebrate his conquest of Gujarat in 1573. See also Taj Mahal Tomb of Salim Chishti Ibadat Khana Jodha Bai Mahal Naubat Khana Humayun's Tomb Notes and references External links Gateway to the Mughal era, K D L Khan, Maharaja Features, Sunday 15 May 2011, Deccan Herald'' Buildings and structures in Agra district Gates in India Fatehpur Sikri Sandstone buildings in India Archaeological monuments in Uttar Pradesh Mughal architecture