Fatehpur Sikri History and Architecture – Agra Tour Guide
History of Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri, known as the "City of Victory," is located 35 km from Agra on a rocky ridge of the Vindhya mountains. The site was historically significant even before Akbar (1556–1605) built his capital here. Babur, Akbar’s grandfather, named the area Shukri (“thanks”) after his victory over Rana Sanga of Mewar.
In 1568, Akbar visited the Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti seeking a son. When his heir, Prince Salim (later Emperor Jahangir), was born in 1569, Akbar built Fatehpur Sikri as a tribute to the saint. Construction of the new capital began in 1571 and continued for about 15 years.
Fatehpur Sikri served as a strategic capital, closer to Gujarat for Akbar’s expansionist campaigns. However, the city was abandoned around 1585, likely due to water scarcity and military needs in Kabul and Kandahar. Over the centuries, it was sparsely used, restored during the reign of Muhammad Shah, and later surveyed by Lord Curzon during British rule.
Architecture of Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a perfect blend of Islamic, Hindu, and Persian architectural styles. Built from locally quarried red sandstone, it showcases intricate jali work, carved columns, and ornamental courtyards. Indigenous craftsmen integrated regional styles from Gujarat and Bengal while maintaining Islamic planning norms.
The city spans a rocky ridge 3 km long and 1 km wide, enclosed by walls on three sides, with the fourth bordering a lake. Buildings include royal palaces, mosques, and administrative halls, arranged around courtyards along diagonal ridges. The city’s layout demonstrates charbagh principles, with gardens divided into four quarters connected by water channels and terraces.
Key Attractions at Fatehpur Sikri
Buland Darwaza
Standing 55 meters tall, Buland Darwaza is a monumental victory gate built after Akbar’s Gujarat campaign. The arch bears inscriptions and serves as the entrance to the Jama Masjid.
Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid, a congregational mosque, was built in 1571–72 with iwans around a central courtyard. It features white marble inlays, domes, and rows of chhatris over the sanctuary.
Tomb of Salim Chishti
This white marble tomb honors Sufi saint Sheikh Salim Chishti. It contains intricate mother-of-pearl inlay, carved jalis, and a central chamber housing the saint’s grave.
Diwan-i-Aam & Diwan-i-Khas
Diwan-i-Aam (Hall of Public Audience) allowed Akbar to meet his subjects. The Diwan-i-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) features a central pillar and platforms where Akbar held private religious discussions, including the creation of Din-e-Ilahi.
Panch Mahal
A five-storied palace with diminishing tiers, Panch Mahal features intricately carved columns and open spaces for royal ladies.
Other Highlights
- Hujra-i-Anup Talao: Residence of Akbar’s Muslim wife
- Mariam-uz-Zamani Palace: Rajput queen’s residence
- Naubat Khana: Drum House announcing the Emperor
- Anup Talao: Ornamental pool with bridges and platforms
- Hiran Minar: Circular tower commemorating Akbar’s favorite elephant
Visiting Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. The best time to visit is during October to March, when the weather is cooler. Guided tours from Agra or Delhi enhance the experience, revealing stories behind each courtyard, palace, and mosque.
Travelers can explore the vast city, taking in the UNESCO World Heritage site, stunning Mughal craftsmanship, and the serene gardens inspired by the charbagh layout.
