Chanderi Fort
The town of Chanderi is located on the lush Vindhya hills covered with forests. It presents a delightful sight via its historical wonders. Chanderi emerged in 11 CE. and rulers have managed this way, as it leads to Deccan and ports of Gujarat.
The two mentioned spots of historic importance of different periods –
- Bada Mahal Gate which is a gate that doesn’t lead to any palace or mahal. The gate was built during the reign of Mehmood Shah Khilji in 1450 AD. facing the Jama Masjid, it commands a striking view of the fort. The Bada Mahal Gate is a 100 ft structure featuring carvings and motifs. Once protected by seven boundary walls with several gates and windows, almost every structure is in ruin, except Bada Mahal Gate, which is still retaining its unique identity.
- The Chanderi fort stands at a height of 71 m on a hill. The fortified walls run 5 km long. As it was created during the Mughal period, rulers took initiative for fortification, as it has witnessed several attacks in past and rebuilt it. The Chanderi Fort is approachable via three gates. The ‘Khooni Darwaza’, is the door from where the criminals were thrown as punishment. ‘Hawa Pur’ is the third and highest gate along with ‘Kati-Ghati’, the southwest gate. Tomb of Abdul Rahman, Naukhada Palace and Khilji Mosque are present within the fort complex.