INDIA: Agra Fort

The Agra Fort, located in Agra, northern India, is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal military architecture.

Strategically positioned along the banks of the Yamuna River, the fort also served as the main residence of the Mughal emperors until the capital shifted to Delhi. 

Built primarily from red sandstone, the fort was commissioned by Emperor Akbar in 1565 and later modified by his successors, especially Shah Jahan (of the Taj Mahal), who introduced white marble structures within the complex.

It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

 

 

 

Surrounded by massive 70-foot-high walls and a deep moat, Agra Fort was a military stronghold, a royal residence and an administrative center.

 

 

Inside the fort’s 94-acre complex lie numerous palaces, halls, and mosques that reflect a blend of Islamic, Persian, and Hindu architectural styles built over the decades by various rulers and materials. The earlier sections are built with the red sandstone.

 

 

 

This marble is cut so thin it allows light to pass through it. This technique was also used in the Taj Mahal’s jalis (latticed screens) and delicate inlays.

Some of the lighter colour marble sections that were built later.

Shah Jahan (of the Taj Mahal) introduced white marble reflecting his preference for more ornate designs. Some of the craftsmen and artisans who worked on the Agra Fort also contributed to the construction of the Taj Mahal.

For a little Royal Scandal......After Shah Jahan’s health declined in the 1650s, a war of succession broke out among his sons. Aurangzeb defeated his older brother and seized power in 1658. To secure his rule, Aurangzeb placed his father, Shah Jahan under house arrest in Agra Fort. 

Ironically, Shah Jahan spent his final years gazing at the Taj Mahal, but not able to visit it. He was later buried beside his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal in the Taj Mahal. Expand this photo and you can see the Taj Mahal in the middle arch.

I haven’t mentioned anything to John yet about the kind of home I would like to have when we decide to be responsible adults again.....

but, I am getting ideas formulated…..