Rumi Durwaza, Lucknow

Rumi Darwaza is an iconic gateway located in the heart of Lucknow, India. Built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula, the fourth Nawab of Awadh, this symbol of the city blends Roman and Awadhi architectural styles, featuring intricate carvings of flowers and a half-spherical dome resting on a half-octagonal plan. Originally the entrance to the Nawab's royal palace and later the entrance to Old Lucknow, it was constructed during a severe famine as part of a food-for-work program to provide employment to the local population. The name refers to Rûm, the historical Islamic name for the region of Anatolia.and resembles the Bab-i-Hümayun in Istanbul. Situated between Bara Imambara and Chota Imambara, it has become a popular tourist spot in Lucknow, and was also a favorite of early photographers of the city.