The astronomical observatory of Jantar Mantar
This astronomical monument, located in the city of Jaipur, is one of five astronomical observatories built in India during the 18th century by Raja Jai Singh II, an important leader and scholar of the time. The site has 20 astronomical instruments designed to measure time, the height of celestial bodies, the position of the planets and other astronomical phenomena. Designed to be accurate and highly efficient, some of them are still used by modern astronomers.
It became the most important astronomical observatory in India at a technical and architectural level, and was built precisely in Jaipur, known as "the pink city", consolidated as one of the most nourished centers of knowledge in the whole country.
One of the most outstanding instruments of Jantar Mantar is the Samrat Yantra, also known as the Supreme Sundial. This giant sundial is 27 meters high and is capable of measuring time with an accuracy of two seconds. It is one of the largest sundials in the world and is considered an engineering marvel.
Designed in the 18th century to observe the stars with the naked eye, Jantar Mantar is a major tourist destination in the city of Jaipur.
Detail of the Narivalaya Yantra, the sundial at Jantar Mantar.
Another notable instrument is the Jai Prakash Yantra, a device used to measure the height of celestial bodies. This instrument is composed of two marble hemispheres that intersect at one point. The device is designed so that observers can measure the position of celestial bodies by reading the shadow cast by the sun.
The Ram Yantra instrument, on the other hand, is used to measure the height and distance of planets and stars. It consists of two huge metal triangles, joined by a horizontal bar. The triangles are placed at a precise angle to the horizon, allowing astronomers to measure the height and distance of celestial bodies.
Taken together, the instruments at Jantar Mantar are an impressive testament to India's advanced astronomical and mathematical knowledge of the time. The monument was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, and remains a major tourist attraction in Jaipur.
In addition to its scientific and cultural significance, Jantar Mantar is also an impressive example of Indian architecture and design. The astronomical instruments are largely constructed of marble and stone, and are decorated with intricate details and designs. The bright colors and unique shapes of the instruments make the monument impressive to behold and a fascinating experience for visitors.
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