Taj Falaknuma Palace

Taj Falaknuma Palace

Taj Falaknuma Palace, the "Mirror of the Sky," was built in 1894 by Nawab Viqar-ul-Umra, Prime Minister of Hyderabad, as his personal residence, designed by British architect William Ward Marret in a scorpion shape. It was later acquired by the sixth Nizam of Hyderabad and served as a royal guest house. After years of abandonment, Taj Hotels restored and opened it as a luxury hotel in 2010. 

Key Historical Facts & Features:

• Construction: Situated on a 32-acre hilltop, the palace took 10 years to build and was completed in 1894, featuring Italian marble and Venetian chandeliers.
• Royal Residence: While built for the Prime Minister, it became the residence of the sixth Nizam, Mahbub Ali Khan, who used it between 1897 and 1911.
• Design & Layout: Built in the shape of a scorpion with two wings spread out, it is a blend of Italian and Tudor architecture.
• Notable Features: It houses the world's longest dining table (101 guests), a massive library, and a collection of rare artifacts.
• Restoration: The property was in decline until renovated under the guidance of Princess Esra, the Turkish wife of the eighth Nizam, before being opened by Taj Hotels in 2010.
• Renovation & Ownership: Taj Hotels leased the palace in 2000 and spent a decade restoring it to its original grandeur. 

Today, it is a 60-room luxury hotel operated by Taj Hotels and is considered one of India's most opulent heritage properties.