Hyderabad is the capital of the Indian state of Telangana. The city was founded in 1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, the fifth sultan of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Hyderabad was built around the Charminar, which became the city’s center and an iconic landmark. The city quickly became an important trading center for diamonds and pearls and developed into a regional center with many monuments, temples, mosques, and bazaars. After a brief period under Mughal rule, Hyderabad became part of the Asaf Jahi dynasty in 1724, when Nizam ul-Mulk established autonomy over the Deccan region. The Nizam dynasty, also known as the Nizam of Hyderabad, ruled the city until 1948, when Hyderabad became part of the Indian Union.

Hyderabad also has a rich prehistory, with archaeological excavations revealing Iron Age sites dating back to around 500 BC. Megalithic sites from the 2nd century BC have also been found; This happened in areas such as Hasmathpet and Moulali. The region was under the control of the Maurya Empire in the 3rd century BC and later under the Satavahana Empire, which ruled the Deccan Plateau and central India for about 450 years. After the fall of the Satavahana Empire, the area came under the control of the Ikshvaku dynasty. Hyderabad thus has an interesting historical heritage that extends back further than the founding of modern Hyderabad in 1591.

Hyderabad city centre is a large and interesting area where you can experience the daily life and sights of the city. In the heart of the city is the Charminar, Hyderabad’s landmark and a famous monument. Charminar was built in 1589-1591 by Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, and it was done in gratitude for the end of a plague epidemic. Today, Charminar stands as a magnificent example of Indo-Islamic architecture with four tall minarets surrounding the center of the square monument. The monument is surrounded by bustling bazaars, where it is interesting to explore. This is the case, for example, in Laad Bazaar, which is a market area filled with colorful stalls selling everything from jewelry and textiles to spices and handicrafts.

A little west of the center you can see Golconda Fort, which is another important attraction in Hyderabad. The fort’s building complex was built in the 16th century, and it is known for its impressive architecture and historical significance. The fort still has everything from many narrow passages to large and majestic halls, all of which give an insight into the grandeur of the past. Today, Golconda Fort is a popular tourist attraction, where visitors can explore the old buildings and learn about the rich history of the fort. The fort also hosts light and sound shows that tell the story of Golconda and its rulers. In addition, the fort is used for cultural events and festivals, making it a vibrant center for art and culture.

In the same area are the Qutub Shahi Tombs, a collection of Islamic tombs and mosques built by various kings of the Qutub Shahi dynasty. The tombs were built in the 16th-17th centuries in the characteristic Indo-Islamic architecture also seen elsewhere in the city and in India. The smaller tombs have a single storey, while the larger ones have two storeys. In the centre of each tomb is a sarcophagus, which lies above the actual burial chamber in a crypt below. The tombs were originally decorated with blue and green tiles, of which only a few pieces still survive. They were built on a square base surrounded by pointed arches, and they are surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. One of the most impressive tombs belongs to the founder of Hyderabad, Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah, and it has a height of 42 metres and is protected by a large dome.

Back in the center of Hyderabad, you can visit the Salar Jung Museum, which is one of the largest museums in India. The museum has an impressive collection of art and various objects. The museum was originally established as a private collection by the Salar Jung family and was declared an Institution of National Importance by the Indian government in 1961. The museum contains everything from sculptures and paintings to historical books and manuscripts, and thus there are many different themes to explore during a visit. One of the most famous exhibits in the museum is a sculpture by the Italian sculptor Giovanni Maria Benzoni.

The Nizam’s Museum in Purani Havel is another interesting museum in Hyderabad. The museum was opened in the year 2000 and exhibits a number of exclusive objects that were given to the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan, during his silver jubilee in 1936. The museum contains, among other things, a golden throne, a diamond-studded gold tiffin box and a stained glass window of Mir Osman Ali. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the wealth and culture of the Nizam dynasty through its beautiful exhibits. The Nizam dynasty of Hyderabad was founded by Mir Qamar-ud-din Khan Siddiqi in 1724 and ruled the Hyderabad state until 1948. The dynasty was known for its immense wealth and influence, and its rulers played an important role in the political and cultural development of the region.

You can also visit several religious sites and complexes in Hyderabad. One of them is the Birla Mandir, a beautiful Hindu temple located on a high hill overlooking the city. The temple was built of white marble and is dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. Birla Mandir is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of Hyderabad, but you can also admire the beautiful architectural details and the life and ceremonies of a Hindu temple. You can also visit St Joseph’s Cathedral, Hyderabad’s Catholic cathedral. The church was built from 1869 and consecrated in 1875. However, construction continued thereafter, and for example the facade was completed in 1891.

Ramoji Film City is a unique attraction in the area southeast of the center of Hyderabad. It is one of the world’s largest film studio complexes, and there are a number of activities and tours that visitors can enjoy. The film city is known for its impressive film sets, gardens and theme parks, and of course you can also take a guided tour and get an insight into the world of film production, as well as enjoy various entertainment shows and activities. Visitors can experience everything from magnificent palaces and historical buildings to modern cityscapes and exotic gardens that are often used as backdrops in films. There are also theme parks such as Eureka, where you can enjoy exciting rides and shows. For those interested in film production, Ramoji Film City offers workshops and interactive sessions where you can learn about different aspects of the film industry.