GOLDEN FORT

– JAISALMER, INDIA

DATE: 1156 CE

PATRON: Rawal Jaisal (ruler of Bhati dynasty)

MATERIAL: Yellow sandstone

UNESCO world heritage site

ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES:

Structure and design:

•One of the largest and oldest forts in the world

•Trikuta hill rising 76 metres above the surrounding desert

•99 bastions (defensive towers) creating imposing skyline

•Royal palace and temples inside reflect religious culture (Sikh)

Defensive features:

•triple- layered fortification to deflect attacks with extra security

•Meandering pathways confusing

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CULTURAL AND HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE:

•Located on the silk route, making it a wealthy trade center

•Functioned as a military stronghold

•Only ‘living fort’ in India still houses over 4000 residents

AGARAWALA - described it as “golden tiara in the morning sun” while at other times “a scruffy lion lying in wait for its prey”

why is it important in art history?

1. unique fusion of military and decorative architecture

2. rare example of a still inhabited medival fort

3. demonstrates rajput and Mughal artistic influences

4. symbol of Rajasthan’s golden age of trade and wealth