Inscribed as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, the city of Fatehpur Sikri, 60 km from
Mathura and 40 km from
Agra, was built in red sandstone by Emperor
Akbar during the period 1571 - 1585. The new city was built primarily to celebrate the birth of Akbar's son, Salim and as a token of gratitude to Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti. Fatehpur Sikri remained the capital of the
Mughal Empire only for a few years. The city complex is divided into the palace complex and the mosque complex.The architecture of the buildings is a subtle blend of the Islamic and Hindu styles. Monuments such as Diwan-i-Am, Diwan-i-Khas, Panch Mahal,
Jama Masjid, Buland Darwaza, and the tomb of Saint Sheikh Salim Chisti are worth visiting.
The Royal harem at Fatehpur Sikri used to house around five thousand women. Watched over by eunuchs, these women were in a very protected environment. Outsiders were not permitted to enter there. The inmates were usually the beautiful daughters of rulers, who were defeated by Akbar, along with their maid servants. The habitants of the zenana were ranked as concubines (kaniz), dancing girls (kanchni), and female slaves (bandis).
Fatehpur Sikri is on the popular tourist route Delhi/Agra/
Khajuraho/
Varanasi. Flights connect Agra, the nearest airport, to Delhi, Khajuraho and Varanasi. Fatehpur Sikri is also well-connected by road and rail.
