Lahore Fort, Fortress in Lahore, Pakistan

Lahore Fort is a citadel at the northern end of the Walled City of Lahore, covering more than 20 hectares and holding 21 notable monuments. Its Alamgiri Gate, built by Aurangzeb, has two semi-circular bastions topped with domed cupolas and faces the Badshahi Mosque across Hazuri Bagh.

Construction of the current fortress began in 1566 under Emperor Akbar, replacing an earlier mud-brick structure with red sandstone and masonry. Subsequent rulers added more palaces and pavilions, reflecting the growing influence of the Mughal empire.

The Picture Wall stretches across 440 meters with glazed tiles and frescoes showing courtly activities, sports and natural scenes from Mughal royal life. These depictions offer insight into the daily routines and preferences of the rulers who lived and governed here.

The complex divides into two main sections, and a walk through leads across gardens, courtyards and interiors with decorative elements. Comfortable shoes are advisable because the grounds are large and there are many stairs and passages between buildings.

The Naulakha Pavilion's name is explained in two ways: it may refer to the nine lakh rupees spent on its construction, or to the nine lakh semi-precious stones set into its mosaics. The pavilion is attributed to Shah Jahan, though some scholars date it to the Sikh era.