Lahore Fort (aka Shahi Qila)

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Shahi Qila, Lahore
A Presentation by Ahmad Tariq Bhatti Lahore
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Introduction

• Lahore has been the centre of art, learning and
  excellence in the region through ages. It
  obtained attention of several kings who ruled in
  subcontinent. Thus, it has been the cradle of
  kingdoms for centuries. We can see the relics of
  these kingdoms across the interior city. Lahore
  Fort commonly known as Shahi Qila is one such
  reminiscent that tells us about its past rulers
  eloquently.

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Brief History
Much of the history of the fort is lost in the
mist of antiquity. It is said that a fort was
built by Loh at the same place, who is considered
to be the first ruler of Lahore. The existing
fort was built-up gradually over the course of
several centuries. The earliest reference to the
fort comes in The History of Lahur (Lahore)
written by Al-Beruni, which tells us about a fort
constructed in the early 11th century. Evidences
are found in archaeological digs that give strong
indications that it was built long before 1025
AD. However, in recorded history, it is said to
be destroyed by Mongols in 1241 AD. The existing
structure of the fort was built during the reign
of Emperor Akbar (1566 AD -- 1606 AD). Sometime
before 1566, the mud-brick fort was demolished
and a new one was constructed with burnt-brick.
The fort was renovated, upgraded and expanded
during the reigns of Jahangir, Shah Jahan, and
Aurangzeb. During Sikh regime, Maharaja Ranjit
Singh added several pavilions on the upper
ramparts. Modifications to the fort were made
during British Rule that consisted mainly of
converting older buildings into hospitals,
barracks, etc.
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Webliography

1. www.orientalarchitecture.com/pakistan/lahore/lahor
   e-fort.php
2. http//en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lahore_Fort

Photo credits Photos used in the presentation
were taken during our recent visit made on
25/09/2012.
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Thank you!

• A presentation by
• Ahmad Tariq Bhatti
• Lahore