The correct option is 1 only
Explanation
The Qutub Minar is a seminal monument of Indo-Islamic architecture, representing the victory and establishment of the Delhi Sultanate. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for its corbelled balconies and intricate calligraphy.
Statement 1 is Correct: The construction of the minar was initiated by Qutb-ud-din Aibak in 1199 and largely completed by his son-in-law, Iltutmish, around 1229. Thus, the primary construction took place in the thirteenth century.
Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Qutub Minar stands at a height of approximately 72.5 meters (roughly 238 feet). It is significantly shorter than 500 feet.
Statement 3 is Incorrect: The tower is currently divided into five storeys, not four. While Iltutmish originally completed the structure with four storeys, the top storey was damaged by lightning in the 14th century. Firoz Shah Tughlaq subsequently repaired the damage and added a fifth storey. The first three storeys are made of red sandstone, while the fourth and fifth are composed of marble and sandstone.
Key Takeaway: The Qutub Minar is a 72.5-meter, five-storey tapering tower built primarily in the 13th century, featuring distinct bands of inscriptions and projecting balconies supported by muqarnas corbels.