May 26, 2007

One of the prized heritage sites of Pakistan

Due to the affluent heritage of the Mughal Empire, the capital of the province Punjab, Lahore, is also known as the “City of Gardens and Historical places.” The hospitability of the “Heart of Pakistan” and the grandeur of “Mughal Heritage” attracts tourists from all over the world.

Mughal architecture such as Shahi Qila, Badshai Masjid, Shalimar Garden, Hiran-Minar and the mausoleums of Jahangir and Noor Jehan are very popular tourist spots. The other significant sites of interest in Lahore include Minar-i-Pakistan, the 13 Gates of the city, Tomb of Hazrat Ali Hajwaree, Tomb of Allama Iqbal, Hazuri Bagh Baradare, Lahore Zoo, Gawal Mandi Food Street, Anarkali and many more!

It is impossible to articulate the loveliness and magnificence of all these gorgeous spots in this small article. Today, let’s find out more about the history, majesty and some attractive sites within the Shahi Qila.

Construction and location of the Qila
The Shahi Qila (internationally referred to as The Lahore Fort), Pakistan’s premier world heritage site, was built by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1566. Later on other emperors including Jahangir, Shahjahan and Aurangzaib made different amendments from time to time to enhance the beauty of the citadel. This 1,400 feet long and 1,115 feet wide fort is located in the north-western corner of Lahore in front of Badshahi Masjid and the tomb of Poet of the East, Allama Iqbal.

Significant sites within the Qila
Some of the unique and eminent sites within the fort are Alamgiri gate, Hathi Paer (Steps for Elephants), Khawabgah (sleeping room), Sheesh Mahal (Crystal Palace), Naulakha Pavilion, Doulat Khana-i-Jehangir, Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Special Audience), Diwan-i-Aam (Court for the Commons), Jharoka (Royal Balcony) and Moti Masjid.

Alamgiri Gate — The Alamgiri Gate is the main entrance to Shahi Qila. It was constructed to face west to the Badshahi Mosque in the days of the Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb in 1673 AD. Alamgiri Gate is also depicted on the reverse of a 50 Rupee note of Pakistan.

Hazuri Bagh — The Hazuri Bagh is a small backyard between the Alamgiri Gate and eastern gate of the Badshahi Masjid. This lush green lawn adds more to the splendour and beauty of the citadel.

Hathi Paer (Steps for Elephants) — Hathi Paer are the steps that lead towards the huge arched entrance in the centre. It was designed to allow the emperor's elephant mounted caravan to pass through the residential area situated in courts within the fort. (Imagine this particular panorama; you may come to know the dignity of that specific era.)

Khawabgah — This particular area, as the name suggests, was the sleeping room of the Emperor Jahangir. Later on, Shah Jahan made amendments and constructed another white marbled sleeping room, which is known as the Choti Khawabgah.

Sheesh Mahal (Crystal Palace) — Sheesh Mahal is one of the most sumptuous rooms within the fort. It was constructed by the Emperor Shah Jahan in 1631. The walls and ceiling of the palace are covered with small pieces of coloured gemstone. The beauty and gorgeousness of the palace put the tourist in wonder.

Naulakha Pavilion — The Naulakha Pavilion is a marble building, which is located at the Sheesh Mahal courtyard. It was built in 1631AD by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. It is called “Naulakha” as it cost an exorbitant amount of Rs900,000. The Pakistani embassy in Washington DC is modelled on the Naulakha Pavilion of Shahi Qila.

Moti Masjid (Pearl Masjid) — Moti Masjid is one of the great examples of Muslim art of construction. This white marbled Masjid enhances the splendour of the fort.

Diwan-i-Khass and Diwan-i-Aam — Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Special Audience), Diwan-i-Aam (Court for the Commons) as the name suggest were the special halls made for the VIPs and ordinary people respectively. Here the people would come and would discuss their problems with the emperor.

Other sites — Besides the above mentioned sites there are many other attractive spots including lush green lawns, Jharokas (Royal Balcony), Kala Burj, Lal Burj, Ladies Masjid inside the Fort, Makatib Khana, Khalwat Khana and Hamam (bath).