Red Fort, Historic fort in Central Delhi, India
This fortress is a large palace compound enclosed by thick red sandstone walls that stretch across a wide site and feature several entrance gates, towers and battlements. Inside you find columned audience halls, pavilions set within gardens with water channels, a bazaar street lined with arcades and museums displaying objects from the Mughal period.
Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ordered construction in 1638 when shifting the capital from Agra to Delhi, and work was finished ten years later. After Mughal rulers lived here until 1857, the British took control following the uprising and used the site as a military base until Indian independence.
Every August 15 the Prime Minister delivers a national address from here to mark Independence Day, and millions watch in person or on television. Families and school groups often visit as part of educational trips, while locals and travelers alike stroll through the courtyards and take photographs against the red walls.
The compound opens Tuesday through Sunday from sunrise to sunset, and the site is large enough to occupy several hours. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you will walk a lot, and shade is limited, so bring water and protect yourself from sun exposure.
The Khas Mahal chambers display fine pietra dura inlay using semi-precious stones arranged in floral motifs, reflecting the craftsmanship of Mughal artisans. An underground passage once led to the Yamuna River and allowed rulers to take boat trips discreetly or leave the fortress during danger.
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