Established in 1591 by Muhammad QuliQutb Shah, Hyderabad remained under the rule of the QutbShahi dynasty for nearly a century before the Mughals captured the region. In 1724, Mughal viceroy Asif Jah I declared his sovereignty and created his own dynasty, known as the Nizams of Hyderabad. The Nizam’s dominions became a princely state during the British Raj, and remained so for 150 years, with the city serving as its capital. The city continued as the capital of Hyderabad State after it was brought into the Indian Union in 1948, and became the capital of Andhra Pradesh. In 2014, the newly formed state of Telangana split from Andhra Pradesh and the city became joint capital of the two states, a transitional arrangement scheduled to end by 2025.

Relics of QutbShahi and Nizam rule remain visible today in many parts of the city and its surroundings. The influence of Mughlai culture is also evident in the city’s distinctive cuisine that includes Hyderabadi biryani and Hyderabadihaleem. The QutbShahis and Nizams established Hyderabad as a cultural hub, attracting men of letters from different parts of the world. Hyderabad emerged as the foremost centre of culture in India with the decline of the Mughal Empire in the mid-19th century.Hyderabad was historically known as a pearl and diamond trading centre, and it continues to be known as the City of Pearls. Charminar

Built in 1591, the Charminar is, both a monument and a functional mosque situated on the east bank of the river Musi. The landmark has become a global icon synonymous with Hyderabad and listed among the most recognized structures in India. There are various theories regarding the purpose for which Charminar was constructed. However, it is widely accepted that Charminar was built at the center of the city, at the intersection of the historical trade route that connects the markets of Golconda with the port city of Masulipatnam to commemorate the eradication of an epidemic of plague. Later, the old city of Hyderabad was designed with Charminar as its centerpiece. The structureisof Indo-Islamic architecture style, built with granite, limestone, mortar and pulverised marble, incorporating Persian architectural elements and a profusion of stucco decorations, balustrades and balconies