Punjab has been the cradle of civilization since times immemorial. The ruins of Harappa show an advanced urban culture that flourished over 5000 years ago. Taxila, another historic landmark also stands out as a proof of the achievements of the area in learning, arts and crafts in bygone ages.
The structure of a mosque is simple and it expresses openness. Calligraphic inscriptions from the Holy Qur’an decorate mosques and mausoleums. The inscriptions on bricks and tiles of the mausoleum of Shah Rukn-e-Alam (1320 AD) at Multan are outstanding specimens of architectural calligraphy. The earliest existing building in South Asia with enamelled tile-work is the tomb of Shah Yusuf Gardezi (1150 AD) at Multan. A specimen of the sixteenth century tile-work at Lahore is the tomb of Sheikh Musa Ahangar, with its brilliant blue dome. The tile-work of Emperor Shah Jahan is of a richer and more elaborate nature. The pictured wall of Lahore Fort is the last line in the tile-work in the entire world. 
Folklore
The folk heritage of the Punjab is the traditional urge of thousands of years of its history. While Urdu is the official language of the Province, there are a number of local dialects through which the people communicate. These include Majhi, Jhangochi or Jangli, Pothohari, Seraiki, Jatki, Hindko, Chhachhi, Doabi and Derewali. The songs, ballads, epics and romances are generally written and sung in these dialects.
There are a number of folk tales that are popular in different parts of Punjab. These are the folk tales of Mirza Sahiban, Saiful Maluk, Yousuf Zulaikhan, Heer Ranjha, Sohni Mahiwal, Dulla Bhatti, Pooran Bhagat, and Sassi Punnun. The mystic folk songs include the Kafees of Khwaja Farid in Seraiki, Punjabi and Shalooks by Baba Farid Shakar Ganj. They also include baits, dohras, loris, Sehra, and Jugni. The most famous of the romantic love songs are Mayhiah, Dhola and Boliyan. Punjabi romantic dances include Dharees,Dhamaal, Bhangra, Giddha, Dhola, and Sammi.
Wedding Ceremony
Wedding is one of the most special and colourful events in Punjab. The preparations for the wedding begin months before the wedding day but the actual ceremonies usually last 3 days.
Rokai & Mangani
After the young people have made up their mind to marry, the first step is a simple ceremony called rokai or thaka. The girl’s father, accompanied by some friends and relatives, visits the young man’s house and presents sweets and a small gift of money. The engagement ceremony, or mangani, takes place when the boy’s family returns the visit and in the presence of friends and relatives the intended marriage is announced. Prayers are said at this time, and the couple exchange gifts.
Mehndi
This ceremony takes place on the night before the wedding day. This is the event where you put Henna(Mehndi) on the bride and groom's hands. This event is very colorful and full of traditional songs and dances. Sometimes it is spread over 2 days - one day over at the groom's place to put Henna on groom's hand and the second day over at the bride's house to put Henna on her hand.On this particular day the bride does not wear any make-up and wears a traditional yellow dress. The Mehndi or Henna is placed on the brides hand by married women of the family.
Barat
This is the day that opens a new chapter in the life of two people. The bridegroom’s entourage, the barat, has its own customs to observe – more singing and dancing, decking up the bridegroom, tying a sort of ornamental veil, the sehra, over his face, leading him in procession, often on horseback, to the marriage venue to the accompaniment of a brass band. Milani is the ceremonial welcome of the barat at the gate of the marriage venue – more gifts change hands with the bridegroom’s family on the receiving end. Feasting is on a lavish scale. On this day the Nikah or the official signing of paperwork in the presence of a Imam (Islamic Priest) takes place. The bride doesn't come out until after the Nikah. The Bride wears a specially made and heavily embroided outfit for this special occasion alongwith loads of jewellery. All the guests, especially women, are also dressed in bright coloured dresses and jewellery.The bride's family accompanies her to the stage where she sits with the groom. After this a long photo session with the family and guests takes place After this comes the time when the bride leaves her home to start a new life. This is called the Rukhsati and marks the end of the wedding day.
Valima
The Valima reception takes place on the day after the Wedding. This reception is given by the Groom's side of the family.Then a photo session is started to capture the moments.
