A citadel called Badalgarh
Owing to its red sandstone wall, Agra Fort is also called as Red Fort but long before its association with the Mughals, this grand edifice used to be called by a different name. This ancient citadel was once known as Badalgarh when it belonged to the Rajput kings. It witnessed a series of occupations and wars. In the 16th century, a new chapter unfolded for Badalgarh when the Mughal Emperor Akbar set his sights on Agra, determined to establish it as the capital of his expanding empire. Under Akbar, Badalgarh was reconstructed and fortified, evolving into the Agra Fort.
Marvels of marble and stone
As the royal residence for four generations of the Mughal dynasty, Agra Fort embodies a diverse array of architectural contributions by its imperial residents. While Akbar once adorned the Agra Fort with numerous buildings boasting Bengali and Gujarati influences, Shah Jahan's era demolished some structures to make way for his lavish white marble creations. Aurangzeb added an outer wall and deep moat, ensuring the fort's defences were impenetrable, while the British occupation led to the destruction of many of these marvels in marble.
Among the surviving marvels is the Jahangir Palace, which Akbar commissioned for his son but was used as a residence for royal women.
Then there's the exquisite Khas Mahal, where Shah Jahan lived with his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Local guides say it was embellished with pure gold and precious gems. You can click pictures of its beautiful white marble with intricate etchings and floral inlay work. It also features ornate ceilings, fountains, alcoves, and lattice windows, offering captivating views of the Taj Mahal across the river.
As you explore the fort further, you will come across Musamman Burj, believed to have been Shah Jahan's place of confinement until his demise. It also offers stunning views of the Taj Mahal. Another essential part of the fort is the renowned Diwan-i-Khas, boasting intricate white marble inlay work. Shah Jahan remodelled it, which houses the opulent Peacock Throne, which was made with gold and valuable gems.
And don’t miss the incredible mirrorwork adorning the walls and ceiling of the Sheesh Mahal, which used to be the dressing room for royal ladies. In addition to these notable sites, you can wander through Shah Jahan's marble mosques, public audience halls, courtyards, and gardens.
Apart from the iconic architecture reflecting the legacy of its rulers, the Agra Fort was also designed in a very practical way. To bear with the hot summers of Agra, proper ventilation was ensured inside the fort and an underground water system was also designed to cool the rooms.
