The Bara Imambara was built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula of Awadh in 1784 as a famine-relief project. Its central hall, about fifty metres long, is one of the largest vaulted chambers in the world built without beams or pillars. Above it is the Bhul Bhulaiya, a labyrinth of narrow passages and stairways. The complex also contains the Asafi mosque and a stepwell. Guides are advisable in the labyrinth.

The Chota Imambara, or Imambara of Husainabad, was built in 1838 by Muhammad Ali Shah, the third king of Awadh, who is buried here with his mother. Its gilded dome, turrets and calligraphy are complemented inside by chandeliers and mirrors from Belgium, which give it the name Palace of Lights. A long pool lies in front of the main hall, with a small replica of the Taj Mahal beside it.

The Rumi Darwaza is an ornate eighteen-metre gateway built by Nawab Asaf-ud-Daula in 1784, at the same time as the adjacent Bara Imambara. Said to be modelled on a gate in Constantinople, it is also called the Turkish Gate. It has become the emblem of Lucknow. Traffic still passes through it, and it is at its best when lit up in the evening.

The Atala Masjid in Jaunpur was completed in 1408 under Sultan Ibrahim Sharqi and is the finest example of the Sharqi style. In place of minarets it has a towering arched gateway, or pishtaq, rising about 23 metres in front of the prayer hall, flanked by smaller ones. The cloisters and carved pillars show the hand of local craftsmen. It remains in use for prayer.

The Shahi Bridge over the Gomti in Jaunpur was built between 1564 and 1568 by Munim Khan, a governor under the emperor Akbar. Its stone arches carry a roadway lined with small domed kiosks that once housed shops. A large stone lion standing over an elephant sits on a platform midway. The bridge is still in daily use and is best seen from the riverbank.