Well, the richness of this great monument can be ascertained by one of the most interesting facts. It is that some say that the monument has been designed by an Italian Architect.

It is widely held by some of the European scholars that the Taj was designed by an Italian - Geronimo Veroneo. This view came into existence by Father Manrique, an Augustinian Friar.

He reached the vicinities of Agra in 1640 A.D. for securing the release of Father Antony primarily. In fact, he is the one who had been imprisoned in the Taj Mahal by the then ruling Mughals.

The meeting in Lahore with Father Joseph deCastro was conducted who later died at Lahore in 1640 A.D.

As the story goes, it was during the reign of Jehangir, a goldsmith named Veroneo is believed to come to India and died on his way to Lahore, according to Father Manrique.

As he is associated with many influential Europeans throughout the North Indian provinces, it is widely believed that on his death, he was believed buried in the Christian cemetery of Padres Santos in Agra.

It is interesting and intriguing at the same time to note that Veroneo designed the Taj. However, the evidence of this story is not dominant or firmly believed as there exists many counter views.

Anway, Veroneo's contribution in planning the Taj Mahal is widely held and with due respect. However, if we go by the facts we find that Veroneo use to work with the gold than any other occupation.

But there are conflicting views as some say that the Taj is not an isolated phenomenon, as it cannot be. It is rather the creation of a collective effort since it represents an epoch in the art.