The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is a historic fort in Old Delhi, India. It was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years, until 1857. Let's take a detailed walk through this magnificent structure: ### **1. Lahori Gate** Your journey begins at the **Lahori Gate**, the main entrance to the fort. This gate is named after the city of Lahore, now in Pakistan. Every year on India's Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag here and delivers a speech. ### **2. Chatta Chowk** Just beyond the Lahori Gate is the **Chatta Chowk**, a covered bazaar street where merchants once sold their goods to the nobles of the court. Today, it still functions as a market, offering souvenirs and handicrafts. ### **3. Naubat Khana** Next, you’ll encounter the **Naubat Khana** or Drum House, where musicians used to play ceremonial music. This building leads to the main courtyard of the fort. ### **4. Diwan-i-Aam** The **Diwan-i-Aam** or Hall of Public Audience is where the emperor would address the public and hear their grievances. It’s an open pavilion with a throne alcove in the center. ### **5. Rang Mahal** Moving on, you’ll find the **Rang Mahal** or Palace of Colors, which was the residence of the emperor's wives and mistresses. It’s known for its beautiful, colorful interiors and a central marble pool. ### **6. Khas Mahal** The **Khas Mahal** was the emperor’s private residence. It includes the **Tasbih Khana** (chamber for private prayers), **Khwabgah** (sleeping chamber), and **Baithak** (sitting room). ### **7. Diwan-i-Khas** The **Diwan-i-Khas** or Hall of Private Audience is where the emperor would meet his ministers and state guests. The famous Peacock Throne, which was taken by Nadir Shah in 1739, was once housed here. ### **8. Moti Masjid** The **Moti Masjid** or Pearl Mosque is a small, private mosque built by Emperor Aurangzeb for his personal use. It’s made of white marble and is a serene spot within the fort. ### **9. Hayat Bakhsh Bagh** Finally, you can relax in the **Hayat Bakhsh Bagh** or Life-Bestowing Garden. This large garden features pavilions, water channels, and fountains, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside. ### **Historical Significance** The Red Fort was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638 when he decided to move his capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort's design is credited to architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who also designed the Taj Mahal⁹[^10^]. The fort combines Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles, reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal era. ### **UNESCO World Heritage Site** In 2007, the Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical and architectural significance⁹. I hope this virtual tour gives you a vivid picture of the Red Fort's grandeur and historical importance! If you have any specific questions or want to know more about any part of the fort, feel free to ask.
The Red Fort, also known as Lal Qila, is a historic fort in Old Delhi, India. It was the main residence of the Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years, until 1857. Let's take a detailed walk through this magnificent structure:
### **1. Lahori Gate**
Your journey begins at the **Lahori Gate**, the main entrance to the fort. This gate is named after the city of Lahore, now in Pakistan. Every year on India's Independence Day, the Prime Minister hoists the national flag here and delivers a speech.
### **2. Chatta Chowk**
Just beyond the Lahori Gate is the **Chatta Chowk**, a covered bazaar street where merchants once sold their goods to the nobles of the court. Today, it still functions as a market, offering souvenirs and handicrafts.
### **3. Naubat Khana**
Next, you’ll encounter the **Naubat Khana** or Drum House, where musicians used to play ceremonial music. This building leads to the main courtyard of the fort.
### **4. Diwan-i-Aam**
The **Diwan-i-Aam** or Hall of Public Audience is where the emperor would address the public and hear their grievances. It’s an open pavilion with a throne alcove in the center.
### **5. Rang Mahal**
Moving on, you’ll find the **Rang Mahal** or Palace of Colors, which was the residence of the emperor's wives and mistresses. It’s known for its beautiful, colorful interiors and a central marble pool.
### **6. Khas Mahal**
The **Khas Mahal** was the emperor’s private residence. It includes the **Tasbih Khana** (chamber for private prayers), **Khwabgah** (sleeping chamber), and **Baithak** (sitting room).
### **7. Diwan-i-Khas**
The **Diwan-i-Khas** or Hall of Private Audience is where the emperor would meet his ministers and state guests. The famous Peacock Throne, which was taken by Nadir Shah in 1739, was once housed here.
### **8. Moti Masjid**
The **Moti Masjid** or Pearl Mosque is a small, private mosque built by Emperor Aurangzeb for his personal use. It’s made of white marble and is a serene spot within the fort.
### **9. Hayat Bakhsh Bagh**
Finally, you can relax in the **Hayat Bakhsh Bagh** or Life-Bestowing Garden. This large garden features pavilions, water channels, and fountains, providing a peaceful retreat from the bustling city outside.
### **Historical Significance**
The Red Fort was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1638 when he decided to move his capital from Agra to Delhi. The fort's design is credited to architect Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who also designed the Taj Mahal⁹[^10^]. The fort combines Persian, Timurid, and Indian architectural styles, reflecting the grandeur of the Mughal era.
### **UNESCO World Heritage Site**
In 2007, the Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its historical and architectural significance⁹.
I hope this virtual tour gives you a vivid picture of the Red Fort's grandeur and historical importance! If you have any specific questions or want to know more about any part of the fort, feel free to ask.