As May 13 popularly marks the day the construction of the iconic Red Fort in Delhi started in the late 1630s during the holy month of Muharram. Many centuries later, the fort has stood the test of time to become one of the most important architectural marvels in modern day India. Here are five things you need to know about the fort
Updated On: 2025-05-13 01:56 PM IST
Compiled by : Nascimento Pinto
Apart from building the Taj Mahal, an Indian architectural marvel, Emperor Shah Jahan is also known for building the Red Fort, when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi
The fort, which is situated on the right bank of the Yamuna river, gets its name because of the use of red sandstone to make it. Known to represent the best of Mughal architecture combined with Indian elements, the design has been attributed to Ustad Ahmad Lahori, who was not only the chief architect during Shah Jahan's rule, but is also known to have designed the Taj Mahal
The Red Fort, which is a part of the Red Fort complex, was recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The fort complex, which is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India since 2003, also houses the Salimgarh Fort, which was built earlier by Salim Shah Suri, the son of Sher Shah Suri
While most of the Red Fort was destroyed by the British after the 1857 uprising, Lord Curzon, the former Viceroy of India, ordered its restoration, with a new watering system.
The Red Fort also houses the Red Fort Archaeological Museum at the Mumtaz Mahal, which is located in the fort. Beyond the history of the fort, every year, the Prime Minister of India hoists the Indian flag at the main gate
