Olympiad Test Level 1: Monuments and Art & Architecture- 1 - Class 7 MCQ

Bijapur is known for its:
- Gol Gumbaz: Gol Gumbaz is a magnificent mausoleum located in Bijapur. It is the second-largest dome in the world and is known for its exquisite architecture. The monument is a major tourist attraction and a remarkable example of Islamic architecture.
- Statue of Gomateswara: Bijapur is also famous for the Statue of Gomateswara, also known as Bahubali Statue. It is one of the tallest monolithic statues in the world, standing at a height of 60 feet. The statue is a significant pilgrimage site for Jains and attracts numerous visitors.
- Historical Monuments: Bijapur is home to several other historical monuments that showcase its rich cultural heritage. These include Ibrahim Rauza, Jumma Masjid, Malik-e-Maidan, and Mehtar Mahal. These structures reflect the glory of the Adil Shahi dynasty and are a testament to the city's historical importance.
- Architectural Marvels: The city of Bijapur is known for its architectural marvels, characterized by intricate carvings, grand structures, and unique designs. The blend of Persian, Turkish, and Indian architectural styles is evident in the monuments of Bijapur, making it a paradise for architecture enthusiasts.
- Cultural Significance: Bijapur has a vibrant cultural scene with a mix of Hindu and Muslim traditions. The city hosts various festivals and fairs, including the Urs festival at the famous Sufi shrine of Hazrat Shah Muhammad Qasim. These cultural events attract people from all over the country and provide a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.
Overall, Bijapur's Gol Gumbaz, Statue of Gomateswara, historical monuments, architectural marvels, and cultural significance make it a prominent tourist destination in India.

Answer:
The correct answer is A: Bamiyan. Bamiyan is famous for its gigantic rock-cut statue of Buddha. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Bamiyan:
- Bamiyan is a province in Afghanistan known for its rich cultural heritage.
- The giant rock-cut statue of Buddha was located in the Bamiyan Valley.
- The statue was carved into the side of a cliff and was one of the largest standing Buddha statues in the world.
- It stood at a height of approximately 55 meters (180 feet) and was created in the 6th century.
- The statue was an important symbol of Buddhism and attracted numerous pilgrims and tourists.
2. Borobudur:
- Borobudur is a famous Buddhist temple located in Java, Indonesia.
- It is known for its impressive architecture and intricate stone carvings.
- However, it does not have a gigantic rock-cut statue of Buddha.
3. Anuradhapura:
- Anuradhapura is an ancient city in Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Buddhist temples and monasteries.
- However, it does not have a gigantic rock-cut statue of Buddha.
4. Angkor Wat:
- Angkor Wat is a temple complex in Cambodia and the largest religious monument in the world.
- It is a popular tourist attraction and known for its stunning architecture.
- However, it does not have a gigantic rock-cut statue of Buddha.
In conclusion, the correct answer is A: Bamiyan, as it is the place famous for its gigantic rock-cut statue of Buddha.

The Khajuraho Group of Monuments in Khajuraho, a town in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh, located in Chhatarpur District, about 620 kilometres (385 m) southeast of New Delhi, are one of the most popular tourist destinations in India.

Tower of Silence - Location
The Tower of Silence, also known as Dakhma or Doongerwadi, is a traditional Zoroastrian burial site where the bodies of the deceased are exposed to the elements and vultures for excarnation. In India, the Tower of Silence is located in Mumbai. Here are the details:
Location:
- The Tower of Silence is situated in Mumbai, the capital city of the Indian state of Maharashtra.
- It specifically exists in the Malabar Hill neighborhood, which is a posh residential area in South Mumbai.
Significance:
- The Tower of Silence holds immense cultural and religious significance for the Parsi community, followers of Zoroastrianism.
- It is considered a sacred place for the disposal of the dead according to the ancient Zoroastrian rituals.
Function:
- The Tower of Silence is an open circular structure built on an elevated platform.
- It is designed to facilitate the rapid decomposition of the bodies through exposure to the sun, wind, and scavenger birds like vultures.
- The practice of excarnation is believed to prevent the contamination of the elements, such as earth, water, and fire, which are considered sacred in Zoroastrianism.
Visiting:
- The Tower of Silence is not open to the general public and is accessible only to members of the Parsi community and authorized individuals.
- Visitors are not allowed inside the tower but can observe it from a distance.
In conclusion, the Tower of Silence is located in Mumbai, India, specifically in the Malabar Hill neighborhood. It is a significant site for the Parsi community and follows the Zoroastrian tradition of excarnation for the disposal of the dead.

It is located at Sikandara near Agra.

Lead Architect for Designing New Delhi:
The British architect chosen as the lead architect for designing New Delhi was Edwin Lutyens.
Details:
- Edwin Lutyens, a renowned British architect, was selected as the lead architect for designing New Delhi.
- The decision to design a new capital city for British India was made after it was decided to shift the capital from Calcutta to Delhi in 1911.
- Lutyens collaborated with Herbert Baker, another prominent architect, to create a plan for the new city.
- Their design for New Delhi was a blend of classical and traditional Indian architectural elements.
- Lutyens' design included wide avenues, grand government buildings, and expansive green spaces.
- The most notable architectural marvel in New Delhi is the Rashtrapati Bhavan (formerly known as the Viceroy's House), which serves as the official residence of the President of India.
- Other significant buildings designed by Lutyens in New Delhi include the Parliament House, India Gate, and various administrative buildings.
- Lutyens' architectural style in New Delhi is often referred to as the "Lutyens' Delhi" and is considered a significant example of colonial architecture in India.
Conclusion:
Edwin Lutyens, the British architect, was chosen as the lead architect for designing New Delhi. His collaboration with Herbert Baker resulted in the creation of a city that exemplifies a fusion of British and Indian architectural styles.

Introduction:
Sultan Ghari, built by Iltutmish in 1231 A.D., is an architectural marvel that holds historical significance. It is important to identify the purpose and significance of Sultan Ghari in order to understand its role in history.
Tomb:
The correct answer to the question is Tomb. Sultan Ghari is primarily known as the tomb of Iltutmish, the third ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. It was constructed after his death in 1236 A.D. and serves as his final resting place.
Architectural Features:
Sultan Ghari exhibits several architectural features that are typical of tombs in the Delhi Sultanate era. These features include:
1. Octagonal Structure: The tomb is built in an octagonal shape, which was a common architectural style during that time.
2. Decorative Elements: The exterior of the tomb is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative patterns, showcasing the artistic skills prevalent during the era.
3. Entrance: The entrance of the tomb is adorned with a pointed arch, which is another characteristic feature of the Delhi Sultanate's architecture.
4. Minarets: Sultan Ghari also features minarets, which are tall, slender towers often found in Islamic architecture.
Importance:
Sultan Ghari holds historical and cultural importance for the following reasons:
1. Historical Significance: As the tomb of Iltutmish, Sultan Ghari represents the legacy and reign of one of the prominent rulers of the Delhi Sultanate.
2. Architectural Influence: The architectural style and features of Sultan Ghari have influenced subsequent tombs and structures in the region, showcasing the impact of the Delhi Sultanate's architectural style.
3. Heritage Site: Sultan Ghari is recognized as a heritage site by the Archaeological Survey of India, preserving its cultural and historical value for future generations.
In conclusion, Sultan Ghari, built by Iltutmish in 1231 A.D., is a tomb that holds historical significance, showcases the architectural style of the Delhi Sultanate, and serves as the final resting place of Iltutmish.

Shaking Minarets in Ahmedabad:


The mosque with "Shaking Minarets" can be found in the city of Ahmedabad, India. Here is a detailed explanation of why Ahmedabad is the correct answer:
1. The Shaking Minarets:
- The Shaking Minarets are a unique feature of the Sidi Bashir Mosque in Ahmedabad.
- The minarets are known for their ability to vibrate independently, causing the other minaret to shake as well.
2. Location:
- Ahmedabad is located in the state of Gujarat in western India.
- It is the largest city in Gujarat and serves as an important economic and cultural center.
3. Sidi Bashir Mosque:
- The Sidi Bashir Mosque, also known as the Jhulta Minar, is a medieval mosque in Ahmedabad.
- It was built in the 15th century and is known for its unique architectural design, including the Shaking Minarets.
4. Architectural Wonder:
- The Shaking Minarets of the Sidi Bashir Mosque are considered an architectural marvel.
- When one minaret is shaken, the vibrations are transferred to the other, causing it to shake as well.
- This phenomenon has puzzled architects and engineers for years.
5. Tourist Attraction:
- The Shaking Minarets have become a popular tourist attraction in Ahmedabad.
- Visitors can experience the shaking by climbing up the minarets and giving them a gentle push.
In conclusion, the mosque with "Shaking Minarets" can be found in the city of Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. This unique architectural feature has made the Sidi Bashir Mosque a popular tourist destination.

Monument built in memory of a British monarch: Victoria Memorial
The Victoria Memorial was built in memory of Queen Victoria, who was the British monarch from 1837 to 1901. Located in Kolkata, India, the monument is an iconic symbol of British colonial architecture and serves as a tribute to the Queen's reign.
Key Points:
- The Victoria Memorial was commissioned by Lord Curzon, the then Viceroy of India, as a grand memorial for Queen Victoria.
- Construction of the monument began in 1906 and was completed in 1921.
- The memorial is made of white Makrana marble and incorporates elements of Indo-Saracenic architectural style.
- It stands in the Maidan, a large urban park in Kolkata, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- The central structure of the memorial houses a museum that exhibits paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts related to the British Raj in India.
- The memorial also features several statues and sculptures, including a bronze statue of Queen Victoria herself.
- It is a popular tourist attraction in Kolkata and serves as a reminder of the British colonial era in India.
Overall, the Victoria Memorial stands as a tribute to Queen Victoria's reign and serves as a significant monument in memory of a British monarch.

Konark Sun Temple in Odisha is known as Black Pagoda.