Kolkata, Nov 25 (IANS): Coinciding with World Heritage Week (Nov 19-25), an exhibition of photographs here showcased some of the famous and the lesser-known but important Indian sites and monuments highlighting the links to culture through their styles and designs.

The 'Splendour of Indian Heritage: Sites and Monuments' exhibition at the Indian Museum here presents as many as 40 photographs of India's architectural marvels from 3rd century BC to the 21st century.

"They have been divided into Hindu, Muslim and European/British sections. Some of the selected monuments are famous (like the Taj Mahal) and widely known whereas others are not as well known, but are important nevertheless as they embody regional aspirations and achievements," said G.M. Kapur, state convenor, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), the organisers of the exhibition.

According to Kapur, cultural traditions are an inherent feature of any building and will be visible in these monuments in the specifics of style and design, in the building materials employed, and in the choice and placement of decorative motifs.

"The monuments have been grouped according to the intent with which they were built - secular, religious, for pleasure, for defence, for serving the public etc.," he said.

The exhibit is part of INTACH's 30th anniversary celebrations and will run till Friday.