Whenever we see the Taj Mahal, we see it as a symbol of love. But there are many controversial monuments related to this white marble, which have arisen in the past and are arising even today. Similarly, there are many other iconic monuments and sculptures and monuments around the world which have impressed people with their own unique beauty and history. However, many of these prominent monuments are also known for their many controversies. From land to cutting off the hands of artists, the history of many of these places has been highly disputed. Let us tell you about those places in the world, which are known for their controversies.
Yasukuni Shinto Shrine, Tokyo
Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo was built in 1869 to "commemorate and honor the achievement of those who devoted their precious lives to the cause of their country." There are about 2.5 million names inscribed inside the temple and some 14 names of "Class A" war criminals. The names also include a general who was responsible for the attack on the US fleet at Pearl Harbor and a second general who ordered a war in 1937 that killed nearly 200,000 civilians.
Valley of the Fallen, Spain
The Valley of the Fallen was built in memory of soldiers killed in the Spanish Civil War. Due to being the resting place of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco, this valley is considered disputed. This has made the Valley of the Fallen (Valle de los Caídos) Spain's most controversial monument. General Francisco Franco was the former dictator of the country. He came to power with the help of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy.
Taj Mahal, India
Taj Mahal, the seventh wonder of the world in Agra, India, is one of the most beautiful white marble monuments. But this place has always been surrounded by many controversies. It is believed that after the Mughal King Shah Jahan built the Taj Mahal, Shah Jahan cut off the hands of the artisans. According to him, no one can get this beautiful monument rebuilt. Diya Kumari, granddaughter of Man Singh II (the last ruling king of Jaipur), has claimed that the Taj Mahal was built on land that originally belonged to Raja Jai Singh of Jaipur. They believe that the land was acquired by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
Christopher Columbus statues in America
Obviously, statues of Christopher Columbus in the United States are quite controversial. Christopher Columbus is the man who is known to have discovered America in the wrong way. You will find his sculptures in many places in America. However, many idols were broken over time. For example, a statue of Columbus in Boston was beheaded and a statue of him in Richmond, Virginia was thrown into a lake. In addition, there are many cities that now celebrate Indigenous Day instead of Columbus Day.
Fallen Angel Statue, Madrid, Spain
It is said that the statue of the Fallen Angel in Madrid, Spain is dedicated to Satan. Let us tell you, this is the only monument in the whole world, which is seen as a statue of Satan. The statue was constructed during the 19th century.
