Lahore Fort (Shahi Qila) – Lahore, Pakistan

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The next stop on my historic architectural tour in Pakistan was Lahore Fort (also known as Shahi Qila) which is situated right across Badshahi Mosque. 

This fort has been inhabited from a thousand years and was reconstructed many times over the years by various empires and rulers.

What we see today is the design that was built during Emperor Akbar’s time in 1575. It was built to guard the northwest frontier of the empire. Overtime, however, with different reigns came different additions and modifications to the palaces, lush gardens, meeting places etc.

The fort is a mix of different styles that each emperor of the time preferred. There are European, Hindu and Persian influences throughout the designs.

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One famous structure, Sheesh Mahal was Emperor Shah Jehan’s contribution. This along with the Diwan-e-Khas are my favorite pieces here. 

The Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Private Audience) is a marble pavilion. Basically, this place was for the emperor to meet with state guests and courtiers.

The Sheesh Mahal (palace of mirrors) is an ornate white marble pavilion inlaid with intricate mirror-work of the highest quality. This hall was mostly private and used only by the Imperial family and close  servants.

Before going to this part of the fort, I told my niece that we were going to a palace, to which she excitedly said, she wanted to “twirl like a princess” when we got there! lol Here, they even had a few actors dressed up in Mughal era clothes which was fun for the kids to see.
This part of the fort also had an area where you saw stunning views of Badshahi Mosque and Sikh temple.  There was so much beauty and history everywhere!