Red Fort - Shah Jahan's elegant citadel, construted of red sandstone, was built from 1638 - 1648, for a period of ten years at the eastern extreme of walled city, along the river front of Yamuna. The red sandstone wall of Red Fort, more popularly known as Lal Qila, extends for 2 kms. In height, it varies from 18 mts. on the river side to 33 mts. on the city side. This imposing fort was symbolic of the heights of the Mughal Empire. Shah Jahan started the construction of the massive fort but he never completely moved his capital from agra to his new city of Shahjahanabad in Delhi because he was deposed and imprisoned in Agra Fort by his son Aurangzeb. Thus he could never truly enjoy fruits of his labour.
Before 1857, the fort was a minicity where about 3000 people lived. Today, the fort is typically Indian, with would be guides leaping forth to offer services as soon as you enter. But it is still a calm haven of peace if you have left the frantic streets of Old Delhi. The city noise and confusion are light years away from the fort gardens and pavilions. The Yamuna river used to flow right by the eastern edge of the fort.
Next - Lahori Gate
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