Saturday, December 27, 2008

Agra Fort


Emperor Akbar started construction of the Agra Fort, also known as the Red Fort, in 1565. Built primarily as a military structure, the Shah Jahan upgraded it to a palace, which later became his prison for eight years when his son seized power.

The only point of entry for Agra Fort is through Amar Singh Gate, with its low outer wall and dog-leg design that was used to confuse attackers. As you enter Agra Fort, you come to the two interlinked sandstone buildings - Akbari Mahal and Jahangiri Mahal, the largest private residence in the complex.

Many of the original buildings of Agra Fort were demolished or redesigned by Shah Jahan when he upgraded to a palatial complex. The Khas Mahal (Private Palace) has a copper roof that has
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been restored. The Anguri Bagh or Grape Garden is a jigsaw-patterned Mughal garden with fountains and water channels as well as screens that offered a private area for the emperor and his women.

Agra Fort has the Musamman Burj, an octagonal tower that is considered one of the most attractive buildings in the complex. It also has a tragic history as the spot where Shah Jahan was imprisoned until his death.

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