Discover the History and Heritage of Delhi at Purana Qila

Discover the History and Heritage of Delhi at Purana Qila

Purana Qila, located in the heart of Delhi, is an ancient fortress that stands as a testament to the city's rich history and heritage. Built by the Mughal emperor Humayun, this fortress has been witness to some of the most significant events in Delhi's history. Let's take a closer look at the history and heritage of Purana Qila.

History of Purana Qila

Purana Qila, which means "old fort" in Hindi, was built by the Mughal emperor Humayun in the mid-16th century. The fort was built on the site of an older fort, believed to have been built by the Pandavas of the Mahabharata epic. The fort was later occupied by the Afghan king Sher Shah Suri, who added several structures to the fort, including a mosque and a palace.

The fort underwent several changes of ownership over the centuries and was eventually abandoned and left in ruins. It was later restored by the British during their rule in India, and several archaeological excavations were carried out to uncover the fort's ancient history.

Heritage of Purana Qila

Purana Qila is a treasure trove of ancient history and heritage. The fort is spread over 200 acres of land and includes several structures, including the mosque and palace built by Sher Shah Suri. The fort also includes several gates and bastions, as well as a moat that surrounds the fort.

Visitors can explore the ruins of the fort and discover the stories that shaped Delhi's history. The fort is also home to several museums, including the Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts excavated from the fort.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Purana Qila is its connection to the Mahabharata epic. According to Hindu mythology, the fort is believed to be built on the site of Indraprastha, the capital city of the Pandavas. Visitors can see the excavated remains of the fort's ancient history and get a glimpse into the world of the Mahabharata.

Visiting Purana Qila

Purana Qila is open to visitors every day of the week, and the best time to visit is during the cooler months of the year. The fort is easily accessible by road and is located close to several other popular tourist attractions in Delhi. Visitors can explore the fort on foot and take in the breathtaking beauty of the ancient ruins. They can also enjoy a sound and light show in the evening, which brings the fort's history to life.

Purana Qila is a testament to the rich history and heritage of Delhi. This ancient fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of the Mughals, the Afghans, and the Pandavas. So, if you're looking to explore the history and heritage of Delhi, make sure to add Purana Qila to your itinerary.