Fatehpur Sikri was the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585, during the reign of Emperor Akbar. The city was built around the abode of Sheik Salim Chishti, a mystic who had advised the childless Emperor Akbar and shortly after his first son was born.
Fatehpur Sikri was a glorious city with its beautiful architecture, constructed
entirely of red sandstone, but it was built in an area that had a low water supply. For this reason, the city was abandoned shortly after the death of Emperor Akbar.
The palace buildings and mosque, that is still in use, are well-preserved even after 400 years. Although Fatehpur Sikri is a ghost city there is much to see and many visitors take a day trip from Agra.
The Jama Masjid in Fatehpur Sikri was completed in 1571 and features Persian and Hindu designs. This spectacular mosque is one of the largest in India and it contains the shrine of Sheikh Salim Chishti. The latticed marble screens on his tomb were added in 1606, they are beautifully carved and childless couples of all faiths tie cotton threads on the screens and pray for parenthood.
The palace complex of Fatehpur Sikri includes the Palace of Jodhabai, named for Akbar's Hindu wife; the Sunahra Mahal, home of Akbar's Christian wife; Birbal's House, said to be the home of Akbar's two senior wives; and the Panchal Mahal, a five storey pavilion used by the ladies to watch the court.
The courtyard features Pachisi Court, which is marked similar to backgammon and was apparently played by using slave girls as the pieces. The Anup Talao is a four-quartered pool where Akbar was surrounded by perfumed water. Behind the pool is Akbar's private sleeping rooms and personal library.
Fatehpur Sikri is at its most peaceful at sunrise and most lovely at sunset.
Fatehpur Sikri is at its most peaceful at sunrise and most lovely at sunset.
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