Red Fort

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The fort was originally designed with a 'paradise' theme, featuring a stream known as the Nahr-i-Bihisht that flowed through the imperial apartments.

2. 2

   It took nearly a decade to complete, with construction concluding in 1648.

3. 3

   The fort's layout was influenced by the earlier Agra Fort, also built by the Mughal dynasty.

4. 4

   The Koh-i-Noor diamond was once housed within the fort's decorative features before being removed during the colonial era.

5. 5

   The entrance, the Lahore Gate, was historically oriented toward the city of Lahore, now in Pakistan.

6. 6

   In 1739, the Persian ruler Nader Shah invaded the fort and seized the famous Peacock Throne, taking it back to Persia.

7. 7

   The British military used large portions of the fort as barracks for over 90 years, resulting in the demolition of many original gardens and buildings.

8. 8

   The fort is octagonal in shape, an unusual layout for the period, dictated by the riverside location along the Yamuna.

9. 9

   A significant portion of the fort's interior decorations, including the marble screens, were damaged or stripped during the 1857 uprising.

10. 10

    The fort is currently undergoing phased conservation efforts by the Archaeological Survey of India to stabilize its structural integrity.

Overview

The Red Fort is a 17th-century sandstone fortification that served as the primary residence of the Mughal Emperors for nearly 200 years. Commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638, the complex is renowned for its fusion of Persian, Timurid, and Hindu architectural styles. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a significant symbol of Indian sovereignty. The grounds contain several distinct structures, including the Diwan-i-Aam, Diwan-i-Khas, and the Moti Masjid. Much of the original interior marble work and precious stone inlay was looted during the 1857 Indian Rebellion and subsequent British occupation. The site functions as a museum complex managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. The massive perimeter walls reach up to 33 meters in height and are built from red sandstone, which gives the fort its name. It remains the venue for official national events, including the Prime Minister's Independence Day address.

Insider tips

• Bring a portable power bank and plenty of water, as the complex is expansive with limited shade.

• Consider using an official ASI audio guide or a licensed government-approved guide to contextualize the historical ruins.

• Visit the onsite museums located near the entrance gate to view artifacts like period clothing and weapons.