Datia Palace, Seven-story palace in Datia, India
Datia Palace, also called Bir Singh Palace, is a seven-storey stone palace on an isolated rock west of Datia. It combines Mughal and Rajput architecture: a large ribbed dome on a square base rises at the centre, with smaller domed pavilions to either side, lower wings with overhanging eaves on slender brackets, and a tall right-hand facade with a projecting balcony and recessed niche.
Raja Bir Singh Deo began construction in 1614, with the project extending over nine years. The lengthy construction period reflected the complexity of the ambitious design and the building methods of that era.
The chambers display frescoes and decorations from the Bundela dynasty period that show regional artistic traditions. These artworks allow visitors today to understand the craftsmanship and aesthetic choices of the former ruling class.
The palace sits on an isolated rocky outcrop on the western side of Datia and is accessible by connected roadways. Its elevated location means visitors should expect steps and uneven pathways when exploring.
Abdul Hamid Lahori, who accompanied Shah Jahan to Datia on 19 November 1635, recorded the palace as roughly 80 metres long and as broad, calling it beautiful and strong. The building cost 35 lakh rupees and took nine years to complete.
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