Golconda Fort is one of the important monuments of India, situated in Golconda - the ruined city of South Central India. Located 11 km west of Hyderabad, Golconda was the capital of ancient kingdom of Golconda during c. 1364 to 1512. This 13th century Golconda Fort Hyderabad was built by Hindu Kakatiya kings.
Golconda Fort History
The Golconda fort was initially built by Hindu Kakatiya kings in 13th century, which was further expanded by Qutb Shahi. The city then was the home to the most powerful Muslim sultanates of Qutb Shahi during 16th century.
According to the history of Golconda fort the construction of the fort was started in 1143 during Hindu Kakatiya dynasty, which later was ruled by the Islamic Bahamani sultanate. And after the collapse of Bahamani sultanate finally this massive fort of Golconda was expanded over the period of 62 years by the first three Qutb Shahi kings. With the passage of time now the the ruins of Golconda fort have become the prime heritage attraction of India.
Architecture of Golconda Fort Hyderabad
This marvelous fort is built on a 400 feet high granite hill, which is surrounded by the 5 km circumference of ramparts. The excellent architecture of Golconda fort enforce everyone to cut its finger with teeth. The massive structure of the fort is an architectural masterpiece. The Golconda fort complex is spread over 11 km of huge area. Its eye-catching tombs, corridors, pavilions, temples, mosques, gardens, gates and domes reveal the adorable architectural beauty.
Bala Hisar is the main entrance of the fort, which is decorated with pointed arches, yalis and roundels. Made of granite blocks, graced with peacock and lion carvings the architecture of the fort at first sight seems to be a rich blend of Hindu and Muslim architecture. Its Fateh Darwaza is the structural grandeur of the fort representing the best of acoustic effect. The mosques (Tola Masjid) of the fort complex are famous for its royal arches with lotus medallions and halls. The gardens inside the forts are adorned with sprawling lawns and meticulous artisan work, while the splendid fountains increase the beauty of these gardens several times. The huge gates of the fort are studded with the large pointed iron spikes, that prevented elephants from damaging the fort.
Attractions of Golconda the Fort
Golconda fort has four distinct forts within 10 km of outer boundary wall. The grand structure of fort is adorned with 87 semicircular bastions, 8 gateways, several royal apartments, temples, mosques, halls and stables.
Fateh Darwaza is an outstanding feature of Golconda fort, where one can experience the magical acoustic effect. A hand clap below the certain point of the dome can be heard clearly at the pavilion of "Bala Hisar", which is the highest point of the fort.
It is said that Inside the fort there is a secret tunnel that leads from Darbar Hall to a palace of the fort set at the foothill. Two pavilions at the outer side of the fort and Kala Mandir are another major attractions of the fort.
Naya Qila (New Fort)Opposite to the Golconda fort Naya Qila is an extension of it. The fort is adorned with fascinating ramparts, burj (towers), mosques and wonderful artistic work.
Qutb Shahi TombsThe royal tombs of Qutb Shahi Sultanate are situated around a km north of Golconda fort. These beautiful tombs are enriched with amazing stone carvings and lush gardens.
The Light and Sound Show at Golconda
The light and sound show is one of the supreme attractions of Golconda fort that has been started recently. The spectacular audio and visual light and sound show unfolds the glorified story of Golconda fort. The show is presented in three languages – Hindi, English and Telugu.
