The Red Fort

The Red Fort: This octagonal fort represents the Mughal power and magnificence. This archeological structure is made of red stone with a height of 60 feet and enclosed by 2.41 kms. of defensive walls. The fort has two entrances: Lahori Gate (main entrance) on the western side and Delhi Gate on the eastern side. The fort name has been changed several times from Urdu-Mualla to Quilla-i-Mualla that means the Fort of High Dignity. The castle was well-planned and well protected. There are lots of palaces with gardens, wide roads, auditoriums, prayer rooms, public baths, fountains, gallery and quarters for servants, shopping areas and many other public places.

Diwan-i-Am was the court place. It was well decorated with precious stones most of which were stolen by the British soldiers during 1857. Diwan-i-Khas was another luxurious chamber where the emperor had his private meetings. There is a replica of famous 'Peacock Throne' on the marble pedestal in the centre of the hall. The original was captured and taken as a war trophy in 1739 by the Persian king Nadir Shah. The other famous monuments inside the Red Fort are: The Pearl Mosque, Rang Mahal, Shahi Hamams and The Shah Burj.

The outer wall of Lahori Gate was raised more higher during the period of Aurangzeb so that the king's throne couldn't be seen from outside. Now days on the occasion of Independence Day, Prime Minister of India hoist the National Flag and address the nation from this same barbican.