The foundation of the Golden Temple, also known as Sri Harmandir Sahib, was laid in 1588 by Guru Arjan Dev, the fifth Sikh Guru. The Golden Temple is the holiest Gurdwara (Sikh place of worship) and a central religious symbol for Sikhs worldwide. It is located in Amritsar, Punjab, India.
Guru Arjan Dev initiated the construction of the temple with the aim of creating a central place of worship for Sikhs. The construction of the temple was a significant undertaking, involving not only the physical structure but also the establishment of a sacred pool (Amrit Sarovar) and surrounding buildings.
The foundation stone was laid on a piece of land bought by Guru Ram Das, the fourth Sikh Guru, in 1577. The construction work was carried out by a skilled team of artisans, laborers, and devotees. The temple was designed with four entrances, symbolizing the openness and acceptance of people from all walks of life.
The construction of the Golden Temple was completed in 1604 under the supervision of Guru Arjan Dev. The temple was adorned with gold and precious stones, giving it its distinctive appearance. The gold plating on the temple's exterior and dome is where it gets its popular name, the Golden Temple.
Since its foundation, the Golden Temple has served as the spiritual and cultural center of Sikhism. It attracts millions of visitors and pilgrims each year, and it is known for its serene atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and the holy scripture of Sikhs, the Guru Granth Sahib, which is enshrined inside the temple.
The Golden Temple stands as a symbol of equality, compassion, and religious tolerance, reflecting the core principles of Sikhism. It continues to be a place of worship, community service, and a source of inspiration for people around the world.
