Information on Shahi Fort (Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh) - History & Architecture

Jaunpur Fort or Shahi Qila or Shahi Fort is a 14th century fort, situated in Jaunpur of Uttar Pradesh. The fort was created by Firoz Shah Tughlaq in the year 1360 AD on a bank of a former fort named Kerar Kot. Close to the bank of river Gomti, Jaunpur Fort is a popular historical monument and is protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

Shahi Fort Architecture

Jaunpur Fort is formed on an asymmetrical quadrangle with the chief entrance towards the east side. There are another substitute entrance of the fort towards the west side with the shape of dash port. This entrance come within reach by vertical passageway through the embankment of the fort. The chief entrance is approximately 14 meter tall and 5 meter depth, possessing typical compartments on both sides. Throughout the supremacy of King Akbar, Munim Khan had constructed a courtyard in the front side of eastern gateway with another entrance gate, which was about 11 meter tall. Such construction was intended for enhancing the safety of the fort. The entrances, walls and mainstays of Jaunpur Fort are covered with ashlar stones on the exterior.

The most amazing structure of Jaunpur Fort is 'Bhoolbhulaiya' which is also termed as the Hammam of Ibrahim. It is a perfect model of Turkish architecture. This concrete structure is partially situated underground with arrangements of entry and exit passages. The structure is called Bhoolbhulaiya because of its zigzagging passageways with aromatic steam. There is also a cold water supply along with latrine requirements in this structure. There is a mosque inside Jaunpur Fort which is created in typical Bengali architecture. It is a narrow building with three low vaults. The building is characterised by a prayer gallery of about 12 meter tall columns with extended Persian caption, recording the formation of Mosque in the year 1376 by Obrahim Naib Barbak. There is another monolithic caption in front of the entrance of Jaunpur Fort.

Shahi Fort History

The creation of Jaunpur Fort dates back to 14th century. Firoz Shah Tughlaq created the fort by gaining avaricious contribution from the temples and palaces of the kings of Rathore. Created on an embankment of Kerar Kot, Jaunpur Fort was further reinstated and developed by Mughal emperor. With the arrival of Sharqis stone, the defences of Jaunpur Fort were further reinforced and various regal structures were built. However, many of the structures of Jaunpur Fort has been reduced to debris after a century.

According to historical records, Mughal emperors namely Humayun and Akbar recreated Jaunpur Fort by broad repairing. In later days, Jaunpur Fort was acquired by British people and the structures were damaged throughput the first war for independence in the year 1857. After few years, British rulers demolished the 40 columns of Jaunpur Fort. At present, the fort has been preserved by Archaeological Survey of India.

Shahi Fort Tourism Importance

Juanpur Fort is one of the major tourist attractions of Uttar Pradesh. Inside the fort, tourists can enjoy the popular Bhoolbhulaiya. This structure is the great portion of Jaunpur Fort. Apart from that, the construction and design of the structure of the fort is quite outstanding to explore. Furthermore, tourist can also enjoy the mosque inside the fort. The mosque stands the indications of the ancient Indian architecture. It is a useful specimen of Indian mosque which makes the fort an important place to visit. So be the part of it and explore the marvel of Juanpur Fort.