Fatehpur Sikri is a city built just 37 km away using red sandstone mostly. It was built by Mughal Emperor Akbar and later abandoned due to the scarcity of water. The sunset over the ruins is a beautiful sight to witness. You will also witness the blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture throughout the city. Further, it is said to be a copy of the mosque in Mecca with designs inspired by Persian and Hindi architecture.
History of Fatehpur Sikri
The name was derived from a village called Sikri that used to be located there before the construction of the city. According to history, Akbar visited this village and consulted with a Sufi Saint – Shaikh Salim Chishti. The saint predicted the birth of his heir and when the prophecy was fulfilled, Akbar started constructing the village.
From 1571 to 1585, Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughals. In 1573, when Akbar won over Gujarat, the city’s name was changed from Sikri to Fatehpur Sikri. But the city was abandoned and the two prime reasons for abandoning the city were scarcity of water and the unrest atmosphere in the northwestern part of the country.
When he proceeded towards Punjab in 1585 to fight for his next military campaign, he abandoned the city. Further, in 1803, colonial rulers made this city their administrative center untill 1850.
Architecture of Fatehpur Sikri
This fortified city has 6 km long defensive walls with different entryways on three sides and borders with an artificial lake on the fourth side. The architecture has Persian, Indo-Islamic, and Hindu architectural styles.
There are several palaces, mosques, monuments, and public buildings inside the city. here are special palaces built for Akbar’s favorite wives.
Eight gates are the entryways to the city named Delhi Gate, the Agra Gate, the Lal Gate, the Gwalior Gate, and the Ajmeri Gate, among others.
Structures Inside Fatehpur Sikri
Diwan-I-Am: It is known as the Hall of Public Audience. It was used for celebrations and public gatherings. The hall has cloisters on three sides of a rectangular courtyard. On the west side, you will see the pavilion with Emperoro’s throne.
Diwan-khana-I-khaas: It is known as the Hall of Private Audience. HereEmperor used to hold meetings with nobles and advisors. It is a single vaulted chamber. It is believed that Akbar’s throne occupied the circular space over the capital and 4 corners were assigned to his trusted ministers.
Turkish Sultana’s House: This is located to the left of the Pachisi Board. You will witness a pavilion for repose and an attached pool. The geometrical patterns on the ceiling are similar to Central Asian carvings in wood.
The Treasury: The treasury is located to the left of Diwan-i-Khaas. It is also called Ankh Michauli. It has three rooms which are protected by a narrow corridor.
Daulat khana-I-khas: It is Akbar’s private chamber. It has two main rooms on the ground floor. The bed-chamber is on the first floor. Daulat Khana-I-Khas is connected with other monuments in the fort through corridors.
Palace of Jodha Bai: There are two exactly similar palaces specially built for Jpdha Bai. One is known as Summer Palace and the other is known as Winter Palace. There are 9-meter-high walls and a guarded gate for privacy and security. The architecture is a perfect blend of Hindu cues and Muslim domes.
The Jami Masjid: It is one of the largest mosques in India, built in 1571 AD. It has a vast courtyard for worship. On the right corner, is the Jammat Khana Hall, and next to it the tomb of royal ladies. And to the left, the Jami Masjid. The oldest place of worship at Fatehpur Sikri.
Buland Darwaza: You have to climb the 13-meter flight of steps to enter through Bulan Darwaaza. The gate was built in 1602 AD to commemorate Akbar’s victory over Deccan.
Some Unknown Facts About Fatehpur Sikri
- Fatehpur Sikri was the first planned city built by the Mughal dynasty in India.
- Fatehpur Sikri was much larger and more popular than London during the 16th century, as reported by English traveler Ralph Fitch.
- The architecture and structure of Fatehpur Sikri inspired the planning and construction of Old Delhi (initially Shahjahanabad).
- Akbar only visited the city only once before he passed away.
- Emperor Jahangir stayed at Fatehpur Sikri only for three months in 1619 due to the impact of the bubonic plague.
Timings and Ticket of Fatehpur Sikri
The timings for visiting the Fatehpur Sikri are from 6:00 am to 6:30 pm. It is closed on Fridays. The entry fees are as follows:
Entry Fee for Indians: INR 50
Entry fee for SAARC/BIMSTEC citizens: INR 50
Entry Fee for Foreigners: INR 610
The entry is free for children below the age of 15