The
Safdarjung's Tomb was built in the year 1753-54. This, central domed,
mausoleum was commissioned by Nawab Shuja-ud-Daula, the same Nawab who
later lost the 'Battle of Buxar' which marked the completion of British
ascent in India. He was said to be very found of his father Mirza Muqim
Abul Mansur Khan and that's why he wanted to built a grand mausoleum in
his memoirs. Mansur khan was also known as Safdarjung. He was the regent
of Awadh under Mogul Emperor Mohammed Shah Rangila and later rose to the
post of prime minister.Safdarjung's Tomb is the last monument built on the 'Charbagh' design which was very common in that era. Humayun's tomb was the first monument built on that design. The tomb stands on a high terrace similar but smaller than that of Humayun's tomb. The pedestal of Safdarjung's tomb is 110 sq feet, while the plinth of Humayun's tomb is 370 sq feet. It is in an extensive garden with high enclosure walls, typical of other mausoleum of that era. The garden is divided in to 4 equal parts and then again divided in to 36 parts with the help of fountains and canals.
The tomb is surrounded by chambered alleys on all sides. The most intimidating gateway is on the eastern side. Among others it contains many apartments and a Mosque which is still in use. In the west is a chamber called Jangli Mahal, in the north is Moti Mahal and in the south lays Badshah Pasand. The last one was used by the family in later times as residence.