Lahore is a very popular city of Punjab, Pakistan. Lahore itself calls the historical city. History and origin of the city Lahore cannot be traced back. There are so many beautiful historical places in the beautiful and historical city. Lahore fort is one of the most charming historical buildings in Pakistan. It is located in the Walled City of Lahore’s northwestern corner just in front of the Badshahi Mosque. It covers the area of 20 hectares. The fort is 1400 feet long. The building of Lahore fort or royal fort is locally known as Shahi Qilla. All around the fort there are lush green and beautiful gardens that enhance the beauty and make the fort more attractive.
The origion of Lahore Fort is uncertain but the existing structure can be traced back to the era of Mughal Royal Leader Akbar. 1556 to 1605, the subsequent rulers upgraded the fort. Jahanger, son of Emperor Akbar after him added his palaces. Not just Mughal Emperors but the Sikh and British rulers as well added palaces, walls, pavilions and gateways to the fort. Sheesh Mahal was built by the Jahanger’s son, Shahjahan. There are many royal places like fountains, baths, and gardens and pavilions of the Mughal time can be seen here.
There are two massive and huge main gates of fort. One is Alamgiri gate and other is known as Masjidi Gate. The Alamgiri Gate was built by the Aurangzeb in 1674. This gate was built for the private entrance to the royal quarters and is on the western side of the fort. Currently this gate is opened for the main entrance. The Gate opens toward the Badshahi Mosque and into the Hazuri Bagh. Alamgiri gate is an outstanding double story gate. Other gate known as Masjidi Gate and that is on the eastern side of the fort was built in 1666 by the Emperor Akbar, which opens toward Masti Gate. In Mugghal era, this gate was used for the main entrance. Now days Masti Gate is closed permanently and for the entrance purpose Alamgiri Gate is being used.
Sheesh Mahal, Dewan e Khas, Dewan e Aam, Naulakha Pavilion, and Moti Masjid etc are the sites inside the fort that add more charm and attraction to the fort. There are different sections in the fort and every section has a whole world within it. All of these sections are interconnected. Lahore Fort is a remarkable architectural piece in Lahore.
Replica of Lahore Fort in China
A replica of Lahore Fort was built in Shanghai, China for the Expo 2010. This huge concrete replica was built in front of China Pavilion. In the world’s largest exhibition, this building became most popular building.
