In the year 1570, the third Guru Sahib launched the plans of excavating a holy tank (the name Amritsar was derived from this) and building a town settlement in the area. The fifth Guru Sahib of Sikhs conceptualized a central place of worship; he designed the structure and initiated the construction in 1588. The architecture and layout are symbolic of the openness and accessibility to every individual irrespective of their religion, caste or gender. Over the next few decades, the temple was attacked a few times and suffered damage, which was fixed eventually. The temple complex was further developed by the sixth Guru Sahib, under whose supervision the Akal Takht was constructed. Maharaja Ranjit Singh was the person who took the initiative of bedecking the gurudwara. With his generous contribution and support, the gold plating was completed in the year 1830.
The Golden Temple Amritsar is not only a central religious place of the Sikhs, but also a symbol of human brotgherhood and equality. Everybody, irrespective of cast, creed or race can seek spiritual solace and religious fulfillment without any hindrance. It also represents the distinct identity, glory and heritage of the Sikhs. The Goden Temple Amritsar has a unique Sikh architecture, built at a level lower than the surrounding land level. The Gurudwara teaches the lesson of egalitarianism and humility. The four entrances of this holy shrine from all four directions, signify that people belonging to every walk of the life are equally welcome.