Chauburji

Chauburji (Punjabi and Urdu: چو برجی, "Four Towers") is a Mughal era monument in the city of Lahore, capital of the Pakistani province of Punjab.

The name "Chauburji," which translates as "four towers" was likely given by later generations, as the original site was seen as a monumental gateway to an extensive garden in the Mughal Empire period.

[1][2] The establishment of this garden is often attributed to Mughal Princess Zeb-un-Nisa, who is believed to be referenced in an inscription naming her "Sahib-e-Zebinda Begam-e-Dauran."

The princess was eight years old at the time of construction, so it has been suggested that the inscription may actually be in reference to her aunt, Jahanara Begum, who was a daughter of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.

Heritage campaigners submitted a petition to the Lahore High Court as the planned metro line will pass close to Chauburji, Shalimar Gardens, and nine other sites in the city in violation of the Punjab Special Premises Ordinance, 1985 and Antiquity Act, 1975.

The eastern and western facades of the structure are decorated by two-storey Timurid-style iwans flanked by two levels of alcoves in a style typical of the Shah Jehan period of Mughal architecture.

Chauburji's exterior still has some intricate kashi-kari , or Persian-style tile work.
Chauburji in the 1880s
A view of Chauburji's iwans