Fatehpur Sikri Architecture

Fatehpur Sikri, also known as the City of Victory, was established by Emperor Akbar during the second half of the 16th century. Although it served as the capital of the Mughal Empire for around ten years, it is considered one of the most important cities in history. The Jama Masjid is one of the largest mosques in India and is included in the complex of monuments and temples, all of which are built in the same architectural style.

10 facts about Fatehpur Sikri architecture 

1. The meaning of Fatehpur Sikri

The name Fatehpur Sikri comes from Arabic origins, with Fateh meaning ‘victory’ and Sikri meaning ‘giving gratitude to God.’ The former name of the city was Fatehabad, given by Emperor Akbar, signifying the ‘city of victory.’ After his son, Jahangir’s, second birthday he commenced the construction of an imperial palace, with the names Fatehabad and Sikripur united to form its present-day identity of Fatehpur Sikri.

2. The highest point of entry in the world

The Buland Darwaza, which can be found at Fatehpur Sikri, is the world’s highest gateway due to its height of fifty-four meters and is an integral part of the city’s architectural style. The building is ornamented with a variety of artistic motifs, and the walls also feature carved words from the Quran in some places. The inside of the architecture features a variety of one-of-a-kind patterns and skilled craftsmanship, both of which contribute to the exceptional quality and widespread esteem with which this style is associated.

3. The Sacred compound located in Fatehpur Sikri

The entire imperial city complex that comprises Fatehpur Sikri architecture is located on a hill and is enclosed by a wall on three sides; the fourth side is bordered by a body of water. The ridge that the complex is perched on is called the Citadel of Fatehpur Sikri. The entire complex was made up of a number of different facilities, most of which were luxurious and designed to cater to the needs of the illustrious people who lived in the palace. The Buland Darwaza, the Panch Mahal, and the Jama Masjid are only a few of the buildings that go into making up the overall construction of the Fatehpur Sikri complex.

4. The utilization of crimson sandstone

Mughal’s architecture is represented by the Panch Mahal, which features a terraced form that is distinguished by the use of red sandstone in the construction of the structure. The structure of the Panch Mahal is in the shape of a pyramid, and it is composed of 176 columns that are spread out across its form to provide support for its five levels. The number of columns that are required to support a chhatri construction begins with eighty-four columns on the bottom floor and gradually reduces until there are just four columns on the top floor. Within the complex of Fatehpur Sikri is another building known as the Diwan-I-Am hall for public audiences. This building is constructed entirely out of red sandstone and features a wide courtyard in the middle.

5. Orientation | Fatehpur Sikri

The spaces in the architecture of Fatehpur Sikri are precisely articulated to the four cardinal directions throughout the entire structure. For example, the main prayer hall of the Jama Masjid is oriented especially toward Mecca while also following the geometries of the royal complex as a unified construction. [Citation needed] [Citation needed] Because of the diverse terrain of the site as a whole, the orientation of the building had to be determined by the contours and steepness of the ground that was all around it.

6. The central Mosque

The Jama Masjid is the most important mosque inside the compound of Fatehpur Sikri. In addition to this, Saint Salim Chishti oversaw the construction of this under the direction of Emperor Akbar. The building as a whole is rectangular, and the tomb of Saint Salim Chishti may be found just beyond the mosque’s main entrance.

7. The effect of Hinduism and Islam

Because Emperor Akbar was such a devout follower of Saint Salim Chishti, the tomb of Saint Salim Chishti is recognized as the most important building within the entire palace complex. This is mostly due to Akbar’s devotion to Salim Chishti. The Emperor was under the impression that the Saint was responsible for the safe delivery of his son Jahangir. Around the year 1580, the structure was constructed using patterns and features from both Hindu and Mughal architecture. For example, carved marble screens known as Jaalis can be found on all four sides of the tomb.

8. The impact of architecture that was influenced by the Persians

The inside of the hall known as Diwan-I-Khas, which is used for private hearings, is characterized by central columns that are embellished by carved stone constructions. This type of architecture is largely influenced by the style of elements of Persian architecture. During the reign of Emperor Akbar, this space, which can be found in the complex’s far northeastern corner, was utilized as a private conference chamber. This particular hall is well-known for its center pillar, which is artistically ornamented with brackets that are carved with symbols and patterns typical of Gujarati design. In addition to being influenced by features of Buddhist temple architecture, the architectural design of the Panch Mahal at Fatehpur Sikri was also influenced by forms of Persian architecture and structural design.

9. Announcement on arrival

The drum house, also known as Naubat Khana, can be found in proximity to the main entrance of the complex. This is the location where visitors are welcomed upon their arrival. The Naubat drum, which was a part of Mughal culture and was played during important rituals, is the inspiration for the naming of this structure. Within the structure, which was magnificently crafted with complex carvings quite similar to those found in Mughal art, these drums were played.

10. A World Heritage Site | Fatehpur Sikri

Because it contains a variety of architecturally significant and historically significant temples and monuments, the complex of Fatehpur Sikri’s royal palace has been added to the list of UNESCO Heritage sites. This contains the Jama Masjid, which is both one of the largest mosques in India and one of the most well-known. The unique and stunning combination of numerous Indian architectural forms that resulted in the magnificent architecture of the Mughal Empire draws in thousands of tourists every single day to this particular architectural monument, which serves as a living testament to the phenomenon.

Conclusion 

The Buland Darwaza is the world’s highest gateway due to its height of fifty-four meters and is an integral part of Fatehpur Sikri’s architectural style. The Panch Mahal is in the shape of a pyramid, and it features 176 columns that are spread out across its form. The Jama Masjid is the most important mosque inside the compound of Fatehpur Sikri. Saint Salim Chishti oversaw the construction of this under the direction of Emperor Akbar. Around the year 1580, the structure was constructed using patterns and features from both Hindu and Mughal architecture.

The drum house, also known as Naubat Khana, can be found in proximity to the main entrance of Fatehpur Sikri. This is the location where visitors are welcomed upon their arrival at this Mughal-era complex. The complex contains a variety of architecturally significant and historically significant temples and monuments.