Lohagarh Fort

Lohagarh Fort, also known as the Iron Fort, is situated in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, India. It is regarded as one of the strongest forts ever built in Indian history due to its impregnable defenses. The fort was able to withstand repeated attacks from British forces led by Lord Lake during the Siege of Bharatpur in 1805. Despite laying siege for over six weeks, the British forces failed in all four attempts to storm the fortress.

History

The fort was built by a Jat ruler, Maharaja Suraj Mal, in the 18th century. Of the two gates in the fort, the one in the north is known as the Ashtadhatu (eight metaled) gate, while the one facing the south is called the Chowburja (four-pillared) gate.

Monuments inside the fort include Kishori Mahal, Mahal Khas, and Kothi Khas. Jawahar Burj was built by Raja Jawahar Singh in 1765 to commemorate his victory over the Mughals at the Battle of Delhi in 1764. Jawahar Burj was also used for the coronation ceremony of the rulers. Fateh Burj was built by Raja Ranjeet Singh in 1805 to commemorate his win over the British at the Siege of Bharatpur in 1805.

Architecture

The fort is recognized for its robust and enduring construction. The fort walls, including the Chowburja gate and the approach bridges at the Chowburja and Ashtadhatu gates, are recognized as Monuments of National Importance in Rajasthan. Other parts of the fort, such as Kamara Khas, Kishori Mahal, Hansarani Mahal, Kachahari Kala, Chaman Bagichi, Hammam, and the mudwall gates (including Mathura gate, Binarain gate, Atal Bandh gate, Anah gate, Kumher gate, Govardhan gate, Neemda gate, Chandpol gate, and the bastion near Suraj pol), are granted the status of State Protected Monuments in Rajasthan.