A number of historical buildings in Chiniot tell the tales
of its glorious past. One of them, Umar Hayat Palace (also
called Gulzar Manzil), is a masterpiece of indigenous
art and
architecture, located in the centre of the city. If architecture
is frozen music, then Guizar Manzil in Chiniot is the creativity
of human spirit, with its beautiful Jharokas
(balconies) and exquisitely engraved arches. It has a great
attraction for local and foreign tourists.
Umar Hayat was a successful trader. In 1923 he decided to construct a wonderful place
and the construction work was completed by hundreds of workers
in 14 years and this masterpiece
of art and masonry was named as Gulzar Manzil in the name
of his son, Gulzar. But Umar Hayat
could not see and enjoy his masterpiece as he died in 1935
just before its completion. Gulzar Manzil showcases beautiful
architectural patterns which have become a rarity.
This beautiful four-storeyed palace is adorned with unique
art work and is one of the most artistic buildings in the
architectural history of the subcontinent. In 1990.
the building was taken over by the government. A room of the
building was converted into a museum with antiques belonging
to Chiniot. A library has also been established with
thousands of books.
This elegant mosque was built by Nawab Saad UlIah Khan (1595-
1655). the Prime Minister of lndo-Pak Subcontinent during
Emperor Shah Jahan reign. Built during 1646 to 1655 AD, this
mosque is one of the major sights of the town, It is an exceedingly
handsome edifice of hewn stone obtained from the hills near
Chiniot. Like Masjid Wazir Khan, Badshahi Mosque Lahore and
Jamia Mosque Delhi. Almost all salient features of Muslim
architecture are fully reflective in the construction of Shahi
Mosque. which because of its artistic skill and beauty seems
remarkable even today.
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