Historical Significance

Who built the Red Fort?

The Red Fort was commissioned by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639, approximately 7 years after the initiation of his other iconic masterpiece, the Taj Mahal in Agra. Construction of the Red Fort took 9 years, finally being completed in 1648. 

Both the Taj Mahal and the Red Fort stand as symbols of the Mughal Empire at its zenith, a period characterized by immense wealth, architectural brilliance, and a flourishing of arts and culture.

Why was it built?

It is said that Shah Jahan grew weary of Agra which had served as the Mughal capital since the time of his grandfather Akbar. Agra was perceived as hot, overcrowded, and possessing a fort that Shah Jahan likely felt was too small to accommodate his grand vision and growing court. Additionally, Agra may not have provided the full scope for Shah Jahan's deep passion for building.

Delhi held a significant historical resonance as a former imperial capital under the Delhi Sultanate and during the early Mughal dynasty when his great-grandfather Humayun had established the city of Dinpanah. Shah Jahan reportedly visited Delhi on several occasions and, guided by the counsel of royal astrologers and doctors, selected a site on the banks of the Yamuna River for his new city and its citadel.

Shah Jahan envisioned Delhi as a majestic imperial city, and the Red Fort was conceived as the heart of this new capital, Shahjahanabad. 

Why is it named Red Fort?

The Red Fort derives its name from the extensive use of red sandstone in its construction. The massive walls, towering gates, and numerous structures within the complex are predominantly built with this distinctive reddish-hued stone. This color would have been particularly prominent and visually impactful when the fort was newly built, leading to its popular designation as the "Red Fort" or "Lal Qila" (Lal meaning red in Hindi and Urdu).

What makes it an important site to visit?

The Red Fort has been a powerful witness to pivotal moments in Indian history. Its significance spans centuries offering tangible connection between empires, rebellions, and the birth of a nation.

A Seat of Mughal Majesty (1638 - 1707)

For over two centuries, the Red Fort served as the main residence of Mughal emperors and the vibrant heart of their vast empire. It witnessed crucial political decisions and the flourishing of exquisite architecture blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles.

A Citadel Under Siege (1707 - 1857)

After the reign of Aurangzeb (1658-1707), the Mughal Empire gradually weakened, and the Red Fort became a witness to internal strife and external invasions. 

In 1739, the fort was plundered by Nadir Shah, the ruler of Persia. This invasion saw the removal of immense wealth, including the famed Peacock Throne and the Koh-i-Noor diamond, dealing a significant blow to Mughal prestige and the fort's opulence. 

Later in the 18th century, the fort also experienced incursions by the Marathas and the Jats.

A Stage for British Colonial Power (1857 - 1947)

During the Indian Rebellion of 1857, the Red Fort became a crucial focal point for those fighting against British rule. Rebels gathered within its walls, seeking to reinstate the Mughal emperor, Bahadur Shah Zafar, as a symbol of their resistance against colonial power. The fort endured a period of siege and was eventually captured by the British.

The British utilized the fort as a military garrison, making structural alterations to suit their needs and solidifying its image as a symbol of their dominance over India. Notably, it was within these walls that the trial of Bahadur Shah Zafar, took place, effectively ending the Mughal dynasty and ushering in a new era of colonial rule.

A National Symbol of Independent India (1947 - Present)

Since India gained independence in 1947, the Red Fort has transformed into a potent symbol of national sovereignty and pride. Every year on August 15th, the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at its Lahori Gate and addresses the nation from its ramparts, a powerful tradition signifying India's freedom and its connection to its historical roots.

Today, the Red Fort is protected and preserved by the Archaeological Survey of India. Various museums within the complex offer insights into Mughal artifacts, art, and the fort's layered history.  

What can I expect to see inside the Red Fort?

The Red Fort is like a living museum of Mughal grandeur. You'll discover a fascinating array of historical structures::

• Chatta Chowk: A covered bazaar lining the entrance, historically filled with merchants and now offering souvenirs.

• Naubat Khana (Drum House): The ceremonial gateway leading to the inner palace, where musicians once announced the arrival of the emperor.

• Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience): An exquisitely decorated hall used for private meetings with important dignitaries. Inlaid with precious stones, it once housed the Peacock Throne.

• Rang Mahal (Palace of Colors): The residence of the emperor's wives and mistresses, known for its painted and decorated interiors and the "Nahr-i-Bihisht" (Stream of Paradise) that once flowed through it.

• Barrack-turned Museums: Located in the British barrack buildings, you can find multiple museums dedicated to India's history and freedom struggle.

  
  

To make the most of your visit and ensure you don't miss any key attractions, check out our site plan and suggested walking route here.

Important links: UNESCO listing