The Agra Fort – Facts And History

The Agra Fort, located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an enormous fort complex constructed of red sandstone, regarded as one of the finest Mughal forts in India. In 1565, the Mughal Emperor Akbar commissioned the fort’s construction, and it was further expanded by several of his successors, including Jahangir and Shah Jahan, who added their own unique structures to the complex.

Encompassing a vast area of 94 acres, the fort is surrounded by a moat on three sides and comprises four gates, among which the Delhi Gate is the most renowned. Within the fort, visitors can witness several remarkable buildings, including the Jahangir Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am, and the Sheesh Mahal.

The Jahangir Mahal is a beautiful palace built for Jahangir, the son of Akbar. It is a fine example of Mughal architecture and features intricate carvings and ornamental designs. The Khas Mahal, also known as the Private Audience Hall, was built by Shah Jahan and features white marble walls and a beautiful pavilion.

The Diwan-i-Khas, or Hall of Private Audience, was used by the emperor to meet important dignitaries and features a beautiful throne made of marble. The Diwan-i-Am, or Hall of Public Audience, was used by the emperor to address the common people and features a beautiful facade decorated with intricate carvings.

The Sheesh Mahal, or Palace of Mirrors, is a beautiful palace made entirely of glass and marble. It was built by Shah Jahan and features a stunning array of mirrors that reflect light and create a magical atmosphere.

The Agra Fort is a significant historical site in India that draws in a considerable number of visitors annually. It is a must-see location for individuals fascinated by Indian history and architectural wonders.

 

Other Names Of The Agra Fort:

 

The Agra Fort is also known by other names, including the Red Fort of Agra, Lal Qila, and Qila-i-Akbari. The fort was originally named Badalgarh by its Rajput founders but was later renamed Agra Fort after the Mughals took over the fort in the 16th century.

 

How to Reach The Agra Fort:

 

To visit the Agra Fort, travelers can arrive in the city of Agra, located in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, and access the fort through various means such as air, train, or road.

  • By air: The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, approximately 230 km from Agra, is the closest airport to the Agra Fort. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a train from the airport to reach Agra.
  • By train: Agra has excellent rail connectivity to major cities in India, with the Agra Fort railway station located close to the fort, making it a convenient option for visitors.
  • By road: Agra is connected to major cities in North India through a well-established network of highways, providing visitors with an option to either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the Agra Fort.

Upon arriving in Agra, visitors can easily access the Agra Fort by hiring a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or taking a local bus. The fort is located in the city’s heart and is easily accessible.

 

What To Keep In Mind When Visiting The Agra Fort:

 

  • Timings: The Agra Fort is open every day from sunrise to sunset, and visitors are advised to check the timings before planning their visit.
  • Tickets: To enter the Agra Fort, visitors are required to purchase an entry ticket, with separate charges for Indian and foreign tourists. It is advisable to buy tickets beforehand to avoid long queues at the ticket counter.
  • Clothing: Visitors should dress conservatively and avoid wearing shorts or sleeveless tops. It is also advisable to wear comfortable shoes as the fort complex is quite large, and visitors need to do a fair amount of walking.
  • Photography: Visitors are allowed to take photographs inside the fort, but they need to pay a fee for using a still camera or a video camera.
  • Guides: Visitors can hire a local guide to get a better understanding of the history and architecture of the fort. However, visitors are advised to choose licensed guides and negotiate the fee in advance.
  • Safety: Visitors should take care of their belongings and avoid carrying too much cash or valuables. It is also advisable to be cautious of touts and avoid purchasing souvenirs from unauthorized vendors.
  • Etiquette: Visitors should respect the local culture and avoid littering or damaging the fort’s structures. It is also advisable to be mindful of other visitors and maintain decorum inside the fort.

 

Historical Importance Of The Agra Fort:

 

The Agra Fort is of significant historical importance, as it served as the Mughal Empire’s seat of power for several decades. The fort was erected in 1565 by the Mughal Emperor Akbar and was the empire’s capital until 1638 when it was relocated to Delhi. Later, the fort was utilized as a military base by the British until India attained independence in 1947.

The Agra Fort witnessed several significant events in Indian history, including the reigns of Akbar, Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb. It was the site of several battles, including the battle between Akbar and his son Jahangir, and the battle between Shah Jahan and his sons.

The fort is also significant for its architectural style, which represents a fusion of Persian, Turkish, and Indian styles. The fort’s buildings feature intricate carvings, ornamental designs, and beautiful facades, showcasing the finest examples of Mughal architecture.

The Agra Fort is also known for the famous “Peacock Throne” that was housed in the fort’s Diwan-i-Khas. The throne was constructed by Shah Jahan and was adorned with precious stones and jewels. It was later taken away by the Persian Emperor Nadir Shah in the 18th century and has been lost since then.

Today, the Agra Fort is a popular tourist destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a symbol of India’s rich cultural heritage and a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the Mughal Empire.

 

Construction Of The Agra Fort:

 

The construction of the Agra Fort was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565. The fort was built on the banks of the Yamuna River, which provided a natural defense on one side. The fort’s construction took around eight years to complete, and it is believed that many skilled craftsmen, architects, and engineers from various regions of India and even Central Asia contributed to the project.

The fort was constructed using red sandstone, which was sourced from nearby areas. The use of red sandstone gives the fort its characteristic appearance, and the intricate carvings and designs on the walls and buildings showcase the finesse of Mughal architecture. The fort is also known for its unique blend of architectural styles, which combine elements of Hindu, Islamic, and Persian styles.

The fort’s design is based on the principles of traditional Mughal architecture, with a focus on symmetry, grandeur, and functionality. The fort is rectangular in shape and covers an area of approximately 94 acres. It is surrounded by a moat on three sides, which provided an additional layer of defense.

The fort has four gates, with the most famous being the Delhi Gate, which is the main entrance to the fort. The Delhi Gate is a grand structure, with impressive arches and carvings.

Inside the fort, visitors can see a number of impressive buildings, including the Jahangir Mahal, Khas Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am, and the Sheesh Mahal. Each of these buildings is unique in its own way, with intricate carvings, beautiful artwork, and impressive architecture.

Over the years, several of Akbar’s successors, including Jahangir and Shah Jahan, added their own structures to the complex, further enhancing its beauty and grandeur. Today, the Agra Fort is recognized as a masterpiece of Mughal architecture and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history and culture.

 

Architecture Of The Agra Fort:

 

The architecture of the Agra Fort is a fusion of various styles, including Islamic, Persian, and Hindu styles. The fort is built mainly of red sandstone, but white marble has also been used in some structures.

The fort has four gates: Delhi Gate, Amar Singh Gate, Akbari Gate, and the Elephant Gate. The Delhi Gate is the most famous and is the main entrance to the fort.

Inside the fort, visitors can see several impressive structures. The Jahangir Mahal is a grand palace built by Emperor Akbar for his son Jahangir. It is a fine example of Indo-Islamic architecture and has intricate carvings and beautiful balconies.

The Khas Mahal is a palace built by Shah Jahan for his personal use. It is made of white marble and has beautiful gardens and fountains. The Diwan-i-Khas is a beautiful hall made of white marble and was used by the emperor for private audiences. It has exquisite carvings and designs.

The Diwan-i-Am, also known as the Hall of Public Audiences, was used by the emperor to meet his subjects and hear their grievances. It is a grand hall with beautiful arches and pillars.

The Sheesh Mahal, also known as the Palace of Mirrors, is a stunning structure made entirely of glass and mirrors. It was built by Shah Jahan as a private palace for himself and has intricate designs and carvings on the walls and ceilings.

Overall, the architecture of the Agra Fort is a magnificent blend of different styles and is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Mughal architects and artisans.

 

Battles Fought In The Agra Fort:

 

The Agra Fort has seen several battles and sieges throughout its history. During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the fort was occupied by Indian freedom fighters, who managed to briefly drive out the British. However, the British eventually regained control of the fort after a fierce battle.

In addition to the 1857 rebellion, the fort has also been a site of battles between various Mughal princes vying for the throne. One such battle was fought in 1658 between the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and his brother Dara Shukoh, which resulted in Aurangzeb becoming the emperor and Dara Shukoh being executed.

During the reign of the British, the fort was used as a military base and saw several battles during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. The British also used the fort as a prison and held several Indian freedom fighters here. Today, the fort stands as a reminder of the rich and complex history of India, and attracts visitors from all over the world.

 

Rulers Of The Agra Fort:

 

The Agra Fort was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar in 1565, and it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire until 1638 when the capital was shifted to Delhi.

After Akbar, several Mughal emperors added their own structures to the fort, including Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and Aurangzeb.

In 1658, the fort became the site of a battle between Aurangzeb and his brother Dara Shukoh, which resulted in Aurangzeb becoming the emperor.

During the British Raj, the fort was used as a military base and prison, and saw several battles during the Indian Rebellion of 1857.

After India gained independence in 1947, the fort was handed over to the Indian Army, which used it as a base until 2004. Today, the fort is a popular tourist destination and is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India.

 

Conclusion:

 

The Agra Fort is a magnificent historical monument that reflects the grandeur and splendor of the Mughal Empire. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian history and architecture. With its impressive red sandstone walls, intricate carvings, and impressive buildings, the fort offers a glimpse into India’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the fort’s various buildings and learn about the battles, rulers, and events that have shaped its history. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking to experience the beauty of India’s architectural marvels, the Agra Fort is a destination that should not be missed.

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