North of Itimad-ud-Daulah, set in another faded Mughal garden, the Chini Ka Rauza (free) is the tomb of Afzal Khan, a renowned poet and minister in Shah Jahan’s court. The structure shows the clear influence of Islamic tombs in Central Asia, including the use of blue glazed tiles, which were imported from China via the Silk Road, creating intricate floral patterns and Arabesques.
The tomb's faded inscriptions are said to be the work of Afzal Khan's talented brother, Amanat, who also worked on the calligraphy adorning the Taj. This is the only Mughal structure in Agra aligned with Mecca, and its lavishly decorated interior is styled like a mihrab – the niche indicating the direction of the Kaaba in mosque architecture. While the exterior is heavily worn, the murals inside are still crisp and vibrant.
From the compound, you can see more ruined tombs and garden pavilions dotted along the riverbanks.
