17 Unusual Urban Legends Behind the World’s Most Iconic Landmarks

4. The Curse of the Taj Mahal

The Taj Mahal is often seen as a symbol of eternal love, but its construction is rumored to be steeped in betrayal, obsession, and dark curses. One legend suggests that Emperor Shah Jahan planned to build a black marble twin across the river, but before he could, he was deposed by his own son and imprisoned in Agra Fort, forced to gaze upon his creation until his death. A more chilling tale claims that Shah Jahan had the hands of the architects and artisans severed to ensure that the beauty of the Taj could never be replicated. While there is no historical proof of this gruesome act, the legend persists, and some say the spirits of these craftsmen still roam the grounds, whispering to visitors in the quiet hours of the night.