Question

What material were the double-storeyed gates of Purana Qila primarily built with?

• A. Marble
• B. Red sandstone
• C. Glazed tiles
• D. Rubble

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Red sandstone

Purana Qila Architectural Features

• Primary Construction Material: The double-storeyed gateways of Purana Qila were primarily constructed using red sandstone, complemented by white and greyish-black marble inlays for decorative motifs.
• Historical Background: Construction of Purana Qila (Old Fort) was initiated by Mughal Emperor Humayun in 1533 CE as part of his city, Dinpanah, and was later continued and expanded by Sher Shah Suri after he captured Delhi.
• Three Principal Gateways:
• Bara Darwaza (Big Gate): Located on the western side, this serves as the main entrance to the fort complex.
• Humayun Darwaza: Located on the southern side, overlooking the site of Humayun's tomb.
• Talaqi Darwaza (Forbidden Gate): Located on the northern side, featuring carved marble leogryphs in combat with a man above the windows.
• Key Architectural Highlights:
• The gateways are flanked by massive semi-circular bastions and incorporate elements like jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies) and chhatris (domed pavilions) influenced by Rajasthani architecture.
• Inside the complex stands the famous Qila-i-Kuhna Mosque, built by Sher Shah Suri in 1541 CE, and the Sher Mandal, an octagonal library tower where Humayun fell to his death.
• The fort site is traditionally associated with Indraprastha, the ancient capital city of the Pandavas mentioned in the Mahabharata.