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Buland Darwaza, Fatehpur Sikri, India

Buland Darwaza is a 15-storied high gateway that guards the Northeastern entrance of the city of Fatehpur Sikri. Historians have come to a consensus that this building was constructed in the year 1575. It was commissioned by Emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory over Khandesh and Ahmednagar in Gujarat and Deccan respectively.

 

The intimidating structure stands 43 meters or 140 feet on the pedestal and a cool 54 feet above the ground. The gateway is approached by a steep flight of 42 steps, which add height and majesty to the entire structure. Buland Darwaza that is counted as one of the tallest gateways in the world is almost entirely made out of the red-sandstone with a generous dose of marble decoration on it. The blend of Hindu and Persian architecture is very evident by the use of Quranic inscription on the front and pillar and Cenotaph on the heights of the gateway. The calligraphy work done on the inner façade of Buland Darwaza has very less parallels in India.

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Uploaded on February 12, 2011
Taken on December 15, 2010