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Agra was the capital of the Moghul empire, and thus for 200 years one of the most important urban centers in South Asia. Although it is most famous for the Taj Mahal, which alone brings many people there, Agra has many other significant historical sites. This picture shows the current entry to the Agra fort, which was built by the Moghul emperor Akbar. This fort was partly used as a palace, and partly as a military stronghold (as is clear from this picture).
Within a radius of 3 kilometers, on the banks of the river Yamuna rises the crescent-like Agra Fort. Designed and built by Akbar in 1565.A.D., the fort is surrounded by a 70-foot high wall. It houses the beautiful Pearl Mosque and numerous palaces including the Jahangiri Mahal, Diwan-i-Khas, Diwan-i-Am and Moti Masjid. |
The fort has four gates and is enclosed by a double barricaded wall of red sandstone. Many buildings were constructed within the fort of which very few remain till date. One of the most significant ones is the multi-storeyed Jahangiri Mahal built by Akbar for his wife Jodha Bai. The Mahal is reached through an impressive gateway and its inner courtyard consists of beautiful halls, profuse carvings on stone, exquisitely carved heavy brackets, piers and cross beams.
Most of the panels in the eastern hall are decorated with the Persian styled stucco paintings in gold and blue. It is believed that a century later most of the structures were dismantled by Shahjahan and were replaced with white marble pavilions covered with intricate inlay work of which the most prominent ones are the Diwan-i-khas, the Mausam Burj and the Shaha Burj. Away from the waterfront he built the Moti Masjid and the Diwan-i-Am.
Tourist Information
Open on all weekdays from sunrise to sunset. Entry
fee for those above 12 years. Rs.5.00. Free entry on Fridays.
Best time to visit Agra Fort
From November to February
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