Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, India, is situated near the center of the state along the Gomati River, about 45 miles (72 km) northeast of Kanpur.

The city gained prominence in 1528 when it was captured by Bābur, the first Mughal emperor. Under his grandson Akbar, Lucknow became part of the Oudh province. In 1775, Nawab Āṣaf al-Dawlah moved the capital from Faizabad to Lucknow. During the Indian Mutiny of 1857, Sir Henry Lawrence and the European residents faced a prolonged siege until British troops intervened. Following the mutiny, the British temporarily abandoned the city before regaining control.

Lucknow is known for its remarkable architecture. The Great Imāmbāṛā, built in 1784, serves as a gathering place for Shiʿi Muslims during the month of Muḥarram. The Rumi Darwaza, or Turkish Gate, also constructed in 1784, was inspired by the Sublime Porte in Istanbul. The Residency, built in 1800, is the best-preserved monument and was the site of the British defense during the mutiny. In 1957, a memorial was established to honor the Indians who lost their lives during the uprising.