Asafi Imambara (Bara Imambara) Also known as the Bara Imambara, it was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784 and is one of the architectural wonders of that era. Its central hall is said to be the largest vaulted chamber in the world. Except for the galleries in the interior, there is no woodwork in the entire structure. It has large underground passages which have been blocked up. A staircase from outside leads to a series of labyrinths known as Bhool-Bhulaiyan which is a complicated entanglement of zig-zag pass. Visitors are advised to visit only with authorized guides. Within the compound of the Imambara is the grand Asafi Mosque. Shahi Baoli is another attraction here. Timing : Sunrise to Sunset Entry fee : Rs. 25.00 (Indian) Rs. 300.00 (Foreigner) (inclusive of Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara, Picture Gallery, Shahi Hamam)

The Lucknow School of Architecture was an experiment by the resurgent Nawabs of Awadh. It was an attempt to preserve the Mughal school of architecture by experimenting with different materials and innovating new concepts.

Among the extant architecture there are religious buildings such as Imambaras, mosques and other Islamic shrines, and secular structures like enclosed gardens, baradaris, palace complexes.

The following are distinct features of Lucknow architecture :

• Use of English Baroque style of architecture at Dilkusha Kothi.
• Use of Fish as a decorative motif especially on Gates
• The use of Chattar (umbrella) as in the Chattar Manzil
• The fusion of European and Indian style as the La Martiniere Lucknow
• The Baradari ( the twelve doorway pavilions)
• Rumi Darwaza
• Enclosed Baghs like Sikandar Bagh
• Vaulted halls such as the Asafi Imambara
• The labyrinth at Bara Imambara
• Taikhanas

The Bara Imambara, Chhota Imambara and Rumi Darwaza are testament to the city's Nawabi mixture of Mughlai and Turkish style of Architecture. And La Martiniere Lucknow on the other hand, is a testament to the Indo-European style of architecture. Even the new buildings are fashioned with the characteristic domes and pillars, and monuments lit at night form a main attraction of the city. The city's main market of Hazratganj is a fusion of the old and modern.