The city's grand entrances
The Gumbad Darwaza and Sharza Darwaza were the fortification's major elements that acted as the grand entrances to the city. These gates were constructed during the reign of Kempe Gowda, the founding rulers of Bidar, who had them as part of their defensive architecture.
The Gumbad Darwaza, also known as the Dome Gate, is a name that has been given to this particular gateway because of the dome that crowns it. This artful creation was intended to serve two purposes, as a grand entrance and s lookout tower. There could be guards on the roof of the dome, to maintain a lookout for any incoming threats. It would not only secure the city but also alert the people in case of any danger. The gate's solid structure and impressive appearance had been deliberately designed to be an obstacle to invaders and a symbol of the power of Bidar's walled city.
The Lion Gate, known as Sharza Darwaza, once sported the lion carvings that embellished its façade. These carvings personified the power and protection, representing the spirit of these fierce defenders. Just as the Gumbad Darwaza served as a gateway to the city as well as a watchtower for the guards, the Sharza Darwaza too was a strategic location for the city's guards.
Across the ages, these gates have been a part of many historical events, from battles and sieges to times of tranquility and riches. They have been steadfast through all the vicissitudes of the city’s growth, having witnessed the changing faces of Bidar and the different dynasties that have ruled over it.
A combination of utility and magnificence
The Gumbad Darwaza and Sharza Darwaza stand for absolute mastery of the architectural art of the period. Each gate blends decorative beauty with daily routine duties, displaying architectural styles and defensive requirements of the age.
The Gumbad Darwaza has a large central arch with smaller arches on its sides; all of them are richly decorated with elaborate carving and other ornamental elements. The dome at the top of the gate is its most outstanding feature, as it lets the person on the top look around. The fact that local stone was used in the building of the structure made it not only strong but also gave it a majestic appearance that has survived through time.
Sharza Darwaza's design stands out as well, with its broad arch and intimidating size. The carvings of lions on the facade of the building were a symbol of strength and courage. Although some of the sculptural elements on the gate have worn out, it still gives off an air of grandeur. If you look closely at the architectural style of Sharza Darwaza, you can see a mixture of indigenous designs and Islamic architecture that has influenced the arches and decorative motifs.
