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The fort was originally built by Emperor Akbar and was later expanded by Aurangzeb. The fort's huge double walls rise over 20m (65ft) in height and measure 2.5km in circumference.
They are enclosed by a fetid moat and contain a maze of superb halls, mosques, chambers and gardens which form a small city within a city.
History
Shahjahan was kept captive by Aurangzeb in this red fort.He did gave his father a room with a view of the Taj Mahal, built by him. It is an interesting fort and worth seeing.
Architecture
The foundation of this magnificent mansion was laid by the Emperor Akbar .The high red sandstone has a stronghold of this great monument spans over 2.5 kilometers of the area. The huge walls of the curved citadel are interrupted by impressive gates . Presently only the Amar Singh gate is open to the public.
The original and grandest entrance was through the Delhi Gate, which leads to the inner portal called the Hathi Pol or Elephant Gate.
Jehangiri Mahal : This is the first building while entering through the Amar Singh Gate .The Jehangir's palace was built by Akbar as a residence for his son Jehangir, and is situated north of the gate at the end of a spacious lawn.
Khas Mahal : Built in 1637 by Shah Jahan, the Khas Mahal or the Private Palace is in pure marble and flaunt a distinctive Islamic-Persian appearance
Musamman Burj : An octagonal tower with an open pavilion build by Shahjahan for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal.
Diwan-i-Khas : Built during 1636-37 by Shahjahan, Diwan-I-Khas or the hall of private audience to receive kings, dignitaries and ambassadors. It is a three sided pavilion with a terrace of fine proportions.
Sheesh Mahal : At the northeastern end of the Khas Mahal courtyard is the Sheesh Mahal or the Glass Palace.
Macchhi Bhawan : A grand enclosure meant for harem functions.The emperor used to sit on the white marble platform of the Diwan-i-Khas facing this courtyard.
Hammam-i-Shahi : It is an airy apartment, attached to the residential quarters which was used as a summer retreat.
The Nagina Masjid : It is a private mosque raised by Shah Jahan with typical cusped arches for ladies of the court.
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