Vellore Fort

Tamil Nadu, India

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Vellore Fort in Tamil Nadu, built in the 16th century by the Vijayanagara emperors, is a massive granite structure known for its high walls, deep moat once filled with crocodiles, and fine military architecture. Covering about 133 acres, it has served as a royal residence, military base, and prison under different rulers including the Vijayanagara Empire, Bijapur sultans, Marathas, Carnatic Nawabs, and the British.

The fort is famous for the Vellore Mutiny of 1806, an early rebellion against British rule. Inside the fort, there are notable religious buildings like the Jalakanteswarar Temple, celebrated for its exquisite carvings, as well as a mosque and a church, reflecting a blend of cultural influences. The fort also houses several palaces and a museum dedicated to Tipu Sultan, who was imprisoned there, making it an important historical and architectural landmark in southern India.