Purana Qila is a historical fort located in New Delhi, India. It is believed to be one of the oldest forts in Delhi, with its construction dating back to the 16th century. The fort has a rich history and has been witness to several important events, including battles, sieges, and the rise and fall of various empires.
The construction of Purana Qila is attributed to the Afghan ruler, Sher Shah Suri, who built it in the mid-16th century. The fort was later renovated by Humayun, the Mughal emperor, and was further developed by the subsequent Mughal rulers.
Purana Qila is spread over an area of around 2 km and is surrounded by a moat on three sides. The fort is built of red sandstone and features three main gates, including the Talaqi Darwaza, the Humayun Darwaza, and the Bara Darwaza. The fort also features several structures, including the Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, the Sher Mandal, and the Archaeological Museum.
The Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Delhi and was built by Sher Shah Suri. The mosque is built in a blend of Afghan and Mughal architectural styles and features a prayer hall with five arches and a courtyard. The Sher Mandal is a two-storeyed octagonal tower, which was built by Sher Shah Suri and was later used by Humayun as his library. The Archaeological Museum is located within the fort and houses several artifacts from the Mughal era, including pottery, coins, and sculptures.
Purana Qila has been the site of several important events in history, including the battles of Panipat and the Revolt of 1857. Today, the fort is a popular tourist attraction and is visited by thousands of tourists every year. The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and entry is chargeable. It is also a popular venue for cultural events and festivals.