Description : Agra Fort, the 16th century imposing Mughal monument lies just one km away from the world famous Taj Mahal. The red sandstone monument built by Emperor Akbar, speaks of the splendour of Mughal architecture. Sited on the right bank of the river Yamuna, Agra Fort is one of the most significant and vigorously built stronghold of the Mughal empires. Its richly decorated buildings reflect a distinct Mughal style of art and architecture.
It represents first major building project of Akbar, through remains of only a few buildings built by him now survive. Built on the site of an earlier castle in AD 1565-75, the fort, apart from other important units, contains Jahangiri Mahal, Khass Mahal, Diwan-i-Khass, Diwan-i-Am, Machchhi Bhawan and Moti Masjid. Many extant buildings were erected by Shah Jahan (AD 1630-55). Irregularly triangular on plan, it is enclosed by a double battlemented massive wall of red sandstone which is about 2 km in perimetre and interrupted by graceful curves and lofty bastions. Of its four gates, the most impressive is the Delhi Gate on the west.
The Agra Fort has massive red walls, with an outline of 2.5 kilometers. It dates from the 16th century. Within the walls, palaces, mosques and reception rooms can be found. The most beautiful parts were added in the 17th century, by Shah Jahan. Yes, the same Shah Jahan as from the Taj Mahal. A lot of white marble was used for the inside of Agra Fort too.
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