Minar-e-Pakistan is
a national monument located in Lahore, Pakistan. The tower
was built between 1960 and 1968 on the site where the All-India Muslim
League passed the Lahore Resolution on 23 March
1940 the first official call for a separate and independent homeland
for the Muslims of British India, as espoused by the two-nation
theory. The resolution eventually helped lead to the emergence of an
independent Pakistani state in 1947.
The tower reflects a blend of Mughal/Islamic and
modern architecture. Minar-e-Pakistan has served as the location for a
number of rallies.
The base is about 8 metres above the ground. The
tower rises about 62 metres on the base; the total height of the minar is about
70 metres above the ground. The unfolding petals of the flower-like base are 9
metres high. The diameter of the tower is about 9.75 meters. The rostrum is
built of patterned tiles, and faces Badshahi Mosque. These platforms
depict the freedom struggle. There are 324 stairs to go to the top, besides the
lift.
The base comprises four platforms. To symbolize the
humble beginning of the freedom struggle, first platform is built with uncut
stones from Taxila, second platform is made of hammer-dressed stones,
whereas third platform is of chiselled stones. Polished white marble at the
fourth and final platform depicts the success of the Pakistan Movement.
