The Mughal Empire ruled much of India from 1526 CE to 1857 CE. It was founded by Babur and became one of the largest empires in South Asia. The empire combined different cultural traditions.

Famous buildings such as the Taj Mahal, built in the 1600s, show Mughal architecture with detailed stonework and design. Capitals such as Delhi and Agra were centers of government and culture. The empire supported art, literature, and trade.

The Mughal period blended Persian, Indian, and Islamic influences. The empire declined as British control increased in the 1800s.