Panch Mahal
The tallest building in Fatehpur Sikri
Fatehpur Sikri
Panch Mahal in Fatehpur Sikri, the tallest building in the city
T
he Fatehpur Sikri – Panch Mahal is the tallest structure in the complex. It is built with five stories that keep receding. It is an open structure and is made up of eighty four columns situated on the ground floor. The number eighty four is regarded as very auspicious by Hindus and speaks of Akbar’s tolerance and acceptance of all religions.. The topmost storey is actually a kiosk which has a single dome and is supported by a number of columns which make the total number of columns 176. Unlike most Mughal architecture that lays emphasis on symmetry in its design, this building has an interesting asymmetrical design and there are stairs that connect each level.At the Fatehpur Sikri – Panch Mahal, Akbar’s muslim begums used to come to watch the new moon, whereas his hindu Rajput queens would come here to watch the full moon. The ground and first floors originally were divided with screens into several apartments which served as living quarters for the ladies of the harem and their attendants. They came to this building to enjoy the cool air and beautiful view. The open structure of this building is such that it mitigates the heat by deflecting and then cooling the harsh and hot breeze of the summer. One can also get a breathtaking view of the surroundings. There is a covered passage that connects the private apartment of the Emperor to this place. The most interesting part of this building is that it is construction is based on the Hindu style resembling a Buddhist Vihara.
Fatehpur Sikri
Panch Mahal
Panch Mahal in Fatehpur Sikri, the tallest building in the city