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About Fatehpur
Sikri
The founding of
Fatehpur Sikri reads like a fairytale.
 When all else had
failed, the EmperorAkbar came here in search of the renowned
Sufi mystic, Sheikh Salim Chishti, to ask the blessing of a
son. His prayer was heard, and soon a son was born. In honour
of the saint, Akbar named the prince Salim and vowed to found
a new city. And so Fatehpur Sikri, a magnificent new city rose
on the craggy hills 40 kms from Agra. And for 16 short
butmemorable years it was the wonder of travellers from all
over the world.
Today, Fatehpur Sikri is a deserted, phantom city. But the
inner citadel is immaculately preserved. Its walls, palaces,
baths, royal mint,courts and gardens still stand in
splendidhomage to a great visionary and builder. The heart of
the palace complex however, is verymuch alive. For at the tomb
of Sheikh Salim Chishti, a white marble canopy set in the
greatcourtyard of the Royal Mosque, pilgrims still come in
thousands to offer flowers, tie a threadin the latticed
screens, and to pray for the gift of son.
Architecture
Fatehpur Sikri is one of the finest examples of Mughal
architectural splendour at its height. Though the city is in
ruins, it is a place to visit if one comes to Agra. But in
real terms Fatehpur Sikri is a place where one should spend
some time. The sunset over the ruins is sight to cherish.
Fatehpur Sikri is the best example of the culmination of Hindu
and Muslim architecture. Fatehpur Sikri Mosque is said to be a
copy of the mosque in Mecca and has designs are derived from
the Persian & Hindu architecture. Entrance to this mosque is
through the Buland Darwaza which was built in Gujrat and is 54
meter high. To the North of the Mosque is the dargah of Shaikh
Salim Chishti. This dargah was built in 1570. Here childless
women come for blessings of the saint. Even Akbar was blessed
with three sons when he came here. The lattice work in the
dargah is among the finest to be found any where in India.
Attractions of Fatehpur Sikri
Diwan-i-Khas- Hall of Private Audience
The Diwan-I-Kas is also known as the "The Jewel House or The
Ekstambha Prasada"(Palace of Unitary pillar). A fine taste in
jewelry and knowledge of the market was an accomplishment of a
Moghul gentleman. In this royal chamber for imperial gems and
jewels, Akbar sat on the top of the capital to inspect
precious treasures.This elegant structure with unusual
interiors is composed in two stories from outside, but is
single chambered with high ceiling from inside. It is
surmounted by 4 kiosk and lies in the middle of a court.
Buland Darwaza
The 54 meter high Buland Darwaza or triumphal gateway was
built in 1575 to celebrate Akbar's successful Gujarat
campaign, is the most stupendous architectural work of the
Mughals. The gateway is approached by a steep flight of steps,
which add height and majesty to the entire structure. The
gateway is designed in colored stone and marble.
Panch Mahal
The most intriguing building in Fatehpur Sikri is the Panch
Mahal (five-tiered palace), which is a five-storied pavilion
of winds. The first two floors are of equal size, while the
next two are graded. On top is a single kiosk or open
pavilion. Each of the floors is supported on pillars.
Originally, jali screens stood between the pillars. The
pavilion was originally used by the women of the royal
household and ladies of the harem. From the top of the Panch
Mahal, one can have a panoramic view of this imperial city
with its buildings, palaces, and the courtyards linking them.
Khwabgah: Chamber of dreams/Khilawatkada-I-Khas
This is a beautiful chamber, on the first floor is Akbar's
private room where ladies from the harem could easily visit
him. They also met religious guests and watched court
proceedings from here from behind the screens. The Emperor
retired here for his short afternoon sleep and for relaxation
at night. He held an informal court here with his favorite
noblemen such as witty Birbal, Abul Fazl, Nakib Khan and other
philosophers and Sufis.
Anup Talao
It is also called as "The Peerless Pool or Kapur Talao". This
was the recreation place for the Emperor and it was here that
Tansen used to entertain Akbar and his guests. During
festivals the whole tank was filled with coins handed out in
fistful and skirtful proportions.
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