Red Fort, one of the most precious and ancient historical monuments of India is situated in the heart of India, Delhi. Delhi is the capital of India and the home for several famous forts and monuments in which Red Fort is the one. Red Fort is also known by the name of Lal Quila. This fort was built by the mughal emperor, Shah Jahan between 1638 and 1648. The cost of this fort was about ten million Indian rupees.
The shape of the Red Fort is octagonal and it is like all other islamic buildings of India. The Red Fort has walls extending up to 2 kms. in length with the height varying from 18 mts. on the River Yamuna side and 33 mts. on the city side. Entry is through a huge gate, known as Lahori gate which is also known as Chatta Chowk. There is a beautiful bazaar in Red Fort, known as Meena Bazaar. One can find several excellent collections of antiques, miniature paintings and skillfully crafted fake ivory jewellery and fabulous carpets. Naubat Khana, also known as Drum House is the heart of this beautiful fort where musicians used to play for the emperor.
There are two famous halls in this majestic fort known for public and private audiences. One is known as deewan-e-khas (private hall) and another is known as deewan-e-aam(public hall). There is a throne in centre of these halls known as the Peacock Throne, which was studded with rubies and gems and was carried away to Iran by Nadir Shah in 1739. There are several arched and domed marble places, apartments, mosque and gardens in Red Fort. There is one more famous mahal in this fort known as Rang Mahal or Palace of Colours. This mahal has a spectacular marble made Lotus shaped fountain. This mahal was the home for Emperor's wives and mistresses. One can see the excellent paintings, gold bordered projections, mosaics of mirrors and wonderful carved ceiling. The other attractions enclosed within this monument are the hammams or the Royal Baths, the Shahi Burj, which used to be Shahjahan's private working area, and the Moti Masjid or the Pearl Mosque, built by Aurangzeb for his personal use.