The Golden Fort

Date

1156 - founded by Raja Jaisal

Location

Jaisalmer, India - strategically placed on Triunta hill that overlooked trade routes

materials

made of yellow sandstone, giving the fort its golden appearance

what are some of the key features of its design that enable defense?

narrow winding streets, high walls, bastions, and strategically placed watchtowers.

what does the design/structure reflect?

the grandeur of medieval Rajasthani architecture

what are the fort’s key functions?

serves as a military stronghold, residence, and economic center for trade

what is significant about the materials/techniques and processes?

the blocks are cut on site with grooves and niches to fit into the wall using sandstone that is porous and maximises ventillation to the dry climate

what are the advantages to using sandstone?

it absorbs intense heat and retains it at night, creating insulation

what are some of the defensive elements?

high fortified walls (30ft tall) punctuated by bastions and gates - also steep climbs, narrow passages to slow down an attack

how are the watch towers strategically placed?

they are placed at key points within the outer curtain wall for archers and gunners

what is the purpose of a four tiered, multilayered structure?

In order to provide a multitude of spaces like palaces, temples, residential quarters, high wall tight knit streets.

what is the most prominent structure in the fort?

The most prominent structure in the fort is the majestic Raj Mahal, which served as the royal residence and a symbol of power.

what overhangs the balcony windows?

intricate jharokhas

what are some of the forts decorative features?

marble lattice work, ornately carved arches, finely carved windows, floral/geometric carvings on havelis

what are the residential spaces?

haveli style houses stacked closely together, ornately decorated and reinforce the fort’s compact, fortress like layout

what do step wells/water storage tanks aid in?

create water management systems for inhabitants and allows contemporary spectator to understand resources in medieval periods

what do Hindu and Jain temples imply?

cultural identity and their intricate stonework reflects Indian medieval architecture

what are setbacks to the fort?

exposure to extreme weather conditions erode the landscape and pose a significant threat to longevity of the structure

what does kavita jane say about the fort’s population and appearance?

“While Jaisalmer Fort’s beauty is unrivaled, the overpopulation within it is one of the greatest threats.”

what does K.K Aziz say about the fort’s architectural structure?

“Jaisalmer Fort is an extraordinary example of Rajasthani architecture.”