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Red Fort
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Why the
Red Fort of Delhi
is special

This super-sized 17th century Mughal citadel was rich in power and splendor.

Red Fort
tips & insights

Creation

The Red Fort was built by the great 17th century emperor Shah Jahan, the same person who built the Taj Mahal.

Red Fort's
condition today

Sadly, some structures lost their magnificence over the centuries because of neglect. Another cause were the antique hunters who stripped away marble carvings and other priceless ornaments from buildings. And the 19th century British colonists demolished or altered historic buildings to suit their military requirements.

However...

There is more than enough in good shape today to give you a sense of the grandeur that once was. This includes the mighty red sandstone walls and gates (whose hue gave the citadel its name).

Walls

They are as high as 33 meters (100 feet) and run 2.4 kilometers (1.5) miles around the fort's perimeter.

Gates

Many exist, but the Lahore Gate (see photo) and Delhi Gate are the visual stars.

And don't miss these Red Fort marbled palace buildings:

Diwan-i-Khas

The shah used this ceremonial hall for audiences and meetings with visiting VIPS and his top-ranked ministers.

Diwan-i-Aam

This hall was used for audiences with the shah's ordinary citizens.

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Red Fort photo by Alex Furr - CC BY 3.0

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