Red Fort Complex in India

Facts and Data

Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
View photos from OUR PLACE the World Heritage collection

Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 2007
Size of heritage: 49 ha
- Buffer zone: 43 ha

Coordinates:
Longitude: 77,241°
Latitude: 28,656°

Summary

The Red Fort Complex was built as the palace fort of Shahjahanabad – the new capital of the fifth Mughal Emperor of India, Shah Jahan. Named for its massive enclosing walls of red sandstone, it is adjacent to an older fort, the Salimgarh, built by Islam Shah Suri in 1546, with which it forms the Red Fort Complex. The private apartments consist of a row of pavilions connected by a continuous water channel, known as the Nahr-i-Behisht (Stream of Paradise). The Red Fort is considered to represent the zenith of Mughal creativity which, under the Shah Jahan, was brought to a new level of refinement. The planning of the palace is based on Islamic prototypes, but each pavilion reveals architectural elements typical of Mughal building, reflecting a fusion of Persian, Timurid and Hindu traditions The Red Fort’s innovative planning and architectural style, including the garden design, strongly influenced later buildings and gardens in Rajasthan, Delhi, Agra and further afield.

Location on Map

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Red Fort Complex: A Historic Marvel in New Delhi

The Red Fort Complex, located in the heart of New Delhi, India, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as a testament to the grandeur and architectural brilliance of the Mughal era. This magnificent fortress, also known as Lal Qila, has witnessed centuries of history and continues to be a symbol of India's rich cultural heritage.

History

The construction of the Red Fort Complex began in 1638 under the reign of Emperor Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor. It took nearly a decade to complete this architectural marvel, which was intended to serve as the new capital of the Mughal Empire. The fort was strategically built on the banks of the Yamuna River, providing a natural defense and a stunning view.

For over two centuries, the Red Fort Complex served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors, witnessing the rise and fall of their dynasty. It was the center of political power and a symbol of the empire's grandeur. The fort also served as a venue for various ceremonies, including the famous annual celebrations of the emperor's birthday, known as the "Peacock Throne."

However, the fort's glory was short-lived. In 1857, during the Indian Rebellion against British rule, the Red Fort Complex was captured by the British forces. They repurposed it as a military garrison and made significant alterations to the original structure. The British also looted many precious artifacts and jewels from the fort, diminishing its splendor.

Current State

Today, the Red Fort Complex stands as a magnificent reminder of India's rich history and architectural brilliance. Spread over an area of 254.67 acres, the fort is a harmonious blend of Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles. Its red sandstone walls, reaching a height of 33 meters, enclose a sprawling complex of palaces, gardens, and pavilions.

Entering through the Lahore Gate, visitors are greeted by the Chatta Chowk, a bustling market that once housed the royal artisans and craftsmen. The main attractions within the fort include the Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience), Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience), and the stunning Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors).

The fort also houses several museums that showcase the rich history and culture of India. The Archaeological Museum displays a vast collection of artifacts, including weapons, paintings, and textiles from the Mughal era. The Indian War Memorial Museum, located within the fort, pays homage to the Indian soldiers who sacrificed their lives during various wars.

Address
Distance: 1,1 mi
Scf13 , subhash complex . Chotu ram chowk
124001 Rohtak
India

Time Information

Checkout: 12:00 - Checkin: 12:00
Reception
Weekday: -
Weekend: closed

Videos from the area

Morning on the streets of Old Delhi

Published: February 13, 2013
Length: 54:06 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Lost & Found Travel

Each morning, Delhi does what she has done for well over a thousand years. Wake up and get right to business. Moments after the morning call, the streets jump into action. You can almost smell...

Street Food of Old Delhi - Food Walk Episode 3

Published: March 09, 2014
Length: 39:54 min
Rating: 5 of 5
Author: Aditya Pathak

Naan Bread in Tandoor Oven - Indian Street Food Old Delhi

Published: April 25, 2012
Length: 45:08 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Lost & Found Travel

Enjoy the sites and sounds of Indian Street Food in Old Delhi - shot around Chandni Chowk. The naan in Tandoor oven shot is my favorite. Most of what you see are the "fast food" breads that...

Old Famous Jalebi Wala - Indian donuts dripping with sweet syrup!

Published: July 24, 2013
Length: 05:59 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Mark Wiens

Old Famous Jalebi Wala is one of the most famous places for jalebis in Delhi. More street food here: http://migrationology.com/ So what is a jalebi? A jalebi is sort of like an Indian donut....

Dinabandhu Dinanath (Swami Dayanand Janamdivas Bhajan Sandhya 2013)

Published: May 21, 2014
Length: 24:35 min
Rating: 4 of 5
Author: Arya Samaj

Bhajan by Narendra Arya Ji - Dinabandhu Dinanath (Swami Dayanand Janamdivas Bhajan Sandhya organised by Delhi Arya Pratinidhi Sabha in Arya Anathalya, Pataudi House, Darya Ganj, ...

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Near airports

Indira Gandhi International Airport
Large airport - 10 mi (17 km)

Hissar Airport
Medium airport - 97 mi (156 km)

Agra Airport
Medium airport - 113 mi (182 km)

Dehradun Airport
Medium airport - 120 mi (194 km)

Pantnagar Airport
Medium airport - 138 mi (222 km)

Chandigarh Airport
Medium airport - 142 mi (229 km)

Jaipur International Airport
Medium airport - 154 mi (248 km)

Shimla Airport
Medium airport - 168 mi (271 km)

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport, Amritsar
Large airport - 257 mi (413 km)

Nearby places