Fatehpur Sikri

Mughal Emperor Akbar known for his interest in architecture built the royal city Fatehpur Sikri in 16th century ,situated 26 miles west of Agra. One of the world Heritage Sites of India, Fatehpur Sikri is also known as the "City of Victory”. There is a legend behind the construction of this splendid city. Din-e-Ilahi, Akbar was without a heir for a long time, so he made a pilgrimage to the renowned Sufi saint, Sheik Salim Chisti, to seek his blessings. finally when a son was born to him (later known as Jehangir) Akbar built the new capital to mark his birth and named it after the saint as a mark of his gratitude.

Fatehpur Sikri was also the political capital of the Mughal Empire between 1571 and 1585. The dynasty’s treasure, arsenal and other precious belongings were kept in Fatehpur Sikri. Spread over a total area of two miles, Fatehpur Sikri took fifteen long years to be built. Today, this huge monument is one of the architectural marvels of our country with some of the best monuments within its premises. This huge architectural wonder is a major place of tourist interest which reflects a beautiful blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles.

Fatehpur Sikri is one of the best examples of Mughal architecture. Work on the extensive project - featuring grand palaces, formal courtyards, pools, harems, tombs and a great mosque - began in 1571. A large number of skilled masons and craftsmen worked to their bones on an area that was over two miles long and a mile wide. The main material used for construction was red sandstone, which is available locally. Palace of Five Storeys, and the Buland Darwaza, a massive gate which provides entrance to the complex, it is numbered among the finest specimens of Mughal architecture. It is even arguable that Fatehpur Sikri is the greatest accomplishment of Mughal architecture, surpassed only in reputation.

Fatehpur Sikri has many places of tourist interest like one of the largest mosques in India the Jama Masjid. This mosque has been modeled after the Mosque of Mecca. The Buland Darwaza, an imposing gateway 54m high, is another magnificent structure. The gate built in 1602 AD to commemorate Akbar's victory over Deccan is the highest and grandest gateway in India Tomb of Sheikh Salim Chisti - This tomb attracts many devotees and Place of Jodha Bai which was built for Akbar's Hindu Wives. Other important place to visit over here is Birbal Bhawan. This Bhawan was built for Birbal, one of the nine gems of His court. Diwan-i-Khas (hall of private audience) a huge hall was the place where Akbar discussed important matters with His council of ministers. Diwan-i-Aam (hall of public audience) the name suggest the meaning of place. This place was meant for the common people where their problems were addressed by Akbar. Panch Mahal was the place where Akbar spent His leisure hours of the Mughal architecture which still inspires a sense of awe and wonder among the visitors.

However, after the construction of Akbar's new capital was complete, they realized that the place had no provision for adequate supply of water, and so the lavish monument had to be discarded. Presently Fatehpur Sikri is a ghost city, its architecture is in a perfect state of preservation, and below the fort are the markets of the Old City.