Purana Quila

New Delhi, India

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Purana Quila in New Delhi is one of the oldest forts in the city, believed to be built in the 16th century under the Mughal Emperor Humayun and later enhanced by Sher Shah Suri, the Afghan ruler.

The fort sits on a site with a rich history that dates back to ancient times, including traces from the 3rd century BC linked to the legendary city of Indraprastha from the Hindu epic Mahabharata, traditionally said to be founded by the Pandavas. Architecturally, Purana Quila combines Mughal and Indian styles with thick ramparts, three large gates, and notable structures like the Qila-i-Kuhna mosque and Sher Mandal observatory.

It played a significant historical role as part of Dinpanah, the sixth city of Delhi, and witnessed important events such as the crowning of King Hem Chandra Vikramaditya in 1556. Today, it is a prominent heritage and cultural site surrounded by a moat, reflecting centuries of habitation and India's layered history.