Akbar fort prayagraj
Allahabad Fort, also known as Prayagraj Fort, is a historic fort located in the city of Prayagraj (formerly known as Allahabad) in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. It is situated at the confluence of two major rivers, the Ganges and the Yamuna, and is a significant monument with great historical and architectural importance.
Key facts about Allahabad Fort:
- Historical Significance: The fort has a rich history dating back to ancient times. It was initially constructed by Emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BCE as a part of his Buddhist policy. Later, it underwent several modifications and reconstructions under various rulers, including the Mughals and the British.
- Mughal Rule: The fort gained prominence during the Mughal era when Emperor Akbar rebuilt it in the late 16th century. Akbar renamed the city as Illahabas, which means “City of God,” and the fort became a strategic military outpost for the Mughal Empire. The Allahabad Fort is the largest fort built by Akbar. This fort has three galleries flanked by high towers. As per historian William Finch, it took 5,000 to 20,000 workers of different denomination over a period of forty years to build the fort.
- Architecture: The Allahabad Fort exhibits a blend of Hindu, Mughal, and Islamic architectural styles. It is made of sandstone and features impressive walls, bastions, and gates. The fort covers a significant area and includes several structures within its walls.
- Akshayavat Tree: One of the notable features within the fort complex is the Akshayavat tree, which is considered sacred by Hindus. According to legends, Lord Rama, from the Hindu epic Ramayana, visited the spot, and the tree is believed to be eternal. Akbar’s fort was constructed in such a way that it enclosed the famous Akshayavat tree, where people would commit suicide in order to achieve salvation. The reason for this is not known, although some sources claim that he did it to prevent people from committing suicide.
- Patalpuri Temple: Inside the fort, there is an underground temple known as the Patalpuri Temple. It is believed to be the spot where Lord Rama, a central figure in Hindu mythology, performed a sacred ritual.
- Ashoka Pillar: The fort also houses an Ashoka Pillar, which is an important historical artifact from the reign of Emperor Ashoka.
- British Rule: During the British colonial period, the fort was used as a garrison and underwent further renovations to suit their military needs.
- Accessibility: Allahabad Fort is open to the public and attracts both history enthusiasts and tourists. The fort’s strategic location near the Sangam (confluence of the rivers) adds to its allure.
- Present-day: The fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It is a popular tourist destination and remains an integral part of the city’s cultural heritage.
