Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila) - History and More
The Lahore Fort is one of the noblest structures of its kind in the world. Rising out of the northwest corner of the walled city, it has been a symbol of its earliest days. If it could speak, it would tell such things that would leave the listener breathless. It could tell of love, romance and adventure, of dark eyed beauties and fierce-browed warriors, of queens in flowing silks and kings in shining armour, of poets, actors, slaves and concubines, of soldiers and rebels, of revolutions and court intrigues, of coronations and assassinations, of treachery and black revenge. It is also known as SHAHI QILA, a reflection of many centuries.
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History of Lahore Fort
In the 16th century, Lahore became Akbar’s capital and, in circa 1580 he established the Lahore Fort as it is known today. Since his reign, successive leaders have made their mark on the fort including Shah Jahan’s 17th century Crystal Palace or “Shish Mahal”. However, despite all of the renovations and additions to the Lahore Fort, Akbar’s work can generally be distinguished as the red brick constructions.
Ornate and full of incredible sites such as Naulakha Pavilion and the Hall of Public Audience or ‘Diwan-i-Aam’, the Lahore Fort is also well-planned.
The entrance to the fort is the Alamgiri Gate built by Aurangzeb in 1674 as a private entrance to the royal quarters. It was large enough to allow several elephants carrying members of the royal household to enter at one time. The small Moti Masjid (Pearl Mosque) was built by Shah Jahan in 1644 for the private use of the ladies of the royal household and was restored to its original delicacy in 1904.
After the Mughal Empire fell in the 18th century, the Lahore Fort was ransacked and many of its buildings were damaged. However it has now been carefully restored, allowing visitors to enjoy its original splendour.
Architecture of Lahore Fort
Shahi Qila is one of the historical places to visit in Lahore with a stunning architecture that allows visitors to live its history. There are two main divisions in the fort: one is the administrative section and the other is residential division.
The administrative section is connected with the main entrance that includes courtyards and gardens to greet the royal audiences. On the other hand, the residential division featured concealed chambers and courts for privacy that can be accessed from the elephant gate.
The captivating art of the fort building is an incredible blend of the Islamic and Hindu architecture. The structures and the scriptures engraved on the walls speak volumes about the diversity of the history of Lahore Fort.
Things to do near Lahore Fort
- Visit Shalimar Gardens and Badshahi Masjid
- Explore the old alleys of Walled City, Lahore
Lahore Fort Timings & Entry Fee
Lahore Fort Timings: 8:30 AM–5 PM (7 Days a Week).
Entry Fee: PKR 20 for entering the fort + PKR 100 for visiting Sheesh Mahal.
Note: An additional amount of PKR 150 can be paid to hire a tour guide for Lahore Fort.
Lahore fort is strongly recommended for people who are engrossed in archaeology and history as this place has a lot to tell. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip by clicking on the following button and fill the form.
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