Context:
A recent round of excavations at the site of Delhi’s Purana Qila or Old Fort has uncovered evidence of the continuous history of the city since the pre-Mauryan era.
Relevance:
GS I: History
Dimensions of the Article:
- About Purana Qila
- Architecture
Purana Qila
Location and Historical Significance:
- Purana Qila is situated in the southeastern part of present-day New Delhi.
- It is one of the oldest forts in Delhi and was constructed on the banks of the Yamuna River.
- The construction of the current citadel began during the reign of Humayun and was completed by Sher Shah Suri, also known as “The Lion King.”
- The design of the Qila was inspired by the Jama Masjid, which was established 15 years prior to the reconstruction of the fort.
Architecture:
- Purana Qila has a rectangular shape and covers an area of 1.5 kilometers.
- A notable feature of the fort is its three gates, showcasing a harmonious blend of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles:
- Bara Darwaza or the Big Gate, facing west.
- Humayun Gate, facing south.
- Talaqqi Gate, often referred to as the forbidden gate.
- All the gates are two-storeyed and have large semi-circular bastions on either side.
- The bastions are evenly spaced, except on the westward wall, where they are placed 73 meters apart.
- The eastern and western walls of the fort are the tallest and were designed to protect the kings residing within.
- The walls surrounding the fort are 0.33 meters thick and supported by bastions.
Source: The Hindu
