The archaeological resources of the Indo-Pakistan subcontinent belonging to the time period 1200 to 1700 AD generally comprise a vast range of monuments including remnants of old buildings, towers, forts, palaces, gardens, tombs, mosques, temples etc. However, the dominant feature of this period was buildings of different types especially tombs, forts and mosques..
During the above historical period, India was ruled by Kings of Central Asian origin, who had invaded and conquered this subcontinent. This period can be split into two distinct eras.
The first time period relates to Early Muslim Rule (1200 to 1500 AD) and the second pertains to Mughal Era( 1500 to 1700 AD). The archaeological heritage of the above two time periods is discussed here.
There being a very large number of archaeological monuments of the above time periods, only some of the outstanding buildings, declared as world heritage sites, and representative of both the above periods will be described here.
Early Muslim Era Sites (From 1200 AD to 1500 AD )
This era is historically distinct as during the above period this subcontinent was ruled by the vanguard Muslim kings of Central Asian( mainly Turkish ) origin. Being the early foreign rulers in the region, they were engaged in frequent wars to consolidate their position and as such did not leave much archaeological legacy in the form of many monuments or buildings for posterity. However, they did leave some extremely remarkable landmarks for their commemoration in history. The architecture of this era was dominated by typical Muslim architecture of Turkish origin.
A few renowned archaeological monuments and buildings, which were constructed during the above period of Muslim rule in India, are discussed below.
Qutb Minar and Its Monuments, Delhi, India. These were initially built around the 13th century by the 'Slave Kings' and added on or rebuilt in the next century. In addition to a tall red sandstone tower, the monuments comprise a mosque and a tomb. These are unique specimens of the early Muslim architecture and depict artistic excellence.
Another major archaeological heritage site of this era is located at Thatta, in Sindh province of Pakistan. It comprises a number of historical monuments including tombs, buildings and necropolis depicting the glory of the Sindh civilization in the pre-Mughal Era from 14th to 15th centuries AD, though there are some unique Mughal Era buildings also in this complex, which were constructed in the subsequent centuries.
Mughal Era Sites (1500 to 1700 AD)
Historically, the most prolific period of construction of buildings of all times in India was the Mughal Era.The Mughal kings were also Muslim kings of Central Asian Origin and their founder was King Babar. The Mughal dynasty ruled India for over 300 years from 16th to 19th centuries and left a vast archaeological heritage of magnificent buildings for posterity. In fact the glory and prosperity of the Mughal rule is reflected in these grand buildings. Although the Mughal rule lasted in India from 1526 to1857AD, their most remarkable buildings were built during the period 1550 to 1700 AD, which can be called as their golden period. There was generally peace and stability in the region during this period, which is characterized by beautiful buildings such as forts, palaces, tombs, mosques and gardens. The architecture of this period is unique and was developed by the fusion of Persian, Turkish, Islamic and Indian influences. These buildings and monuments are absolutely marvelous and a great boon for tourism. Some of the most famous archaeological sites of the Mughal period are described below.
Humayun’s Tomb, Delhi, India (16th Century).This is the tomb of Humayun, the second Mughal king of the dynasty, and was built during the reign of the third Mughal king Akbar. It comprises a pavilion, marble dome and canopies surrounded by a sprawling garden and water channels. The monument is also a cultural heritage of the period.
Fatehpur Sikri, Uttar Pradesh, India (16th century).This was a new city built by the great Mughal king Akbar as his capital, though it had to be abandoned after some years due to several practical difficulties. It comprises a large number of buildings including a fort, some monuments, public buildings, mosques, temples, tombs etc. It is remarkable for its splendid architecture and layout.
Agra Fort,Uttar Pradesh, India (16th century). This is also known as the Red Fort and encloses several palaces, towers, mosques etc. It was also built by the great Mughal king Akbar. It depicts the golden period of Mughal power and opulence, and symbolizes the cultural advancement of this dynasty.
Red Fort, Delhi, India (16th century).This historic fort is a palace fort complex built by the 5th Mughal king Shah Jahan. Some outstanding features of this complex include a pavilion and a mosque. It is constructed of red sandstone and reflects a blend of Persian, Taimuri and Indian architectural styles.
Taj Mahal, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India (17th century).This world famous building was built by Mughal king Shah Jahan and is considered as one of the seven wonders of the world. King Shah Jahan got it constructed in the loving memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal. This beautiful building is built entirely of white marble and is the biggest tourist attraction of India.
Rohtas Fort, Chakwal, Pakistan (16th century).This huge and sprawling fort was built by king Sher Shah Suri, who briefly ruled India after wresting power from the Mughal king Humayun. It is a very massive fort and consists of a huge complex of different types of buildings, and was essentially built to guard against the foreign invaders.
Lahore Fort and Shalimar Gardens, Lahore, Pakistan (16th and 17th centuries).These are two great architectural masterpieces of the Mughal Era.
This fort was originally constructed by Mughal king Akbar as a residential palace but subsequently rebuilt by his successors ie. the 4th Mughal king Jahangir and later king Shah Jahan.
Shalimar Gardens was built as a royal recreation garden by Mughal king Shah Jahan with marble pavilions and canopies together with a unique irrigation system for the trees and plants of the garden.
Conclusion
The foregoing review of the archaeological heritage of the period 1200-1700 AD in Indo-Pakistan region depicts a rich and diverse spectrum of magnificent buildings and monuments, which not only stand out as witnesses to the grandeur and glory of this period but also continue to attract millions of tourists to the region.
References
1.UNESCO World Heritage Sites of India
2.UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Pakistan
Arshad Munir - An avid reader of many diverse subjects with a passion for multidimensional writing .though a civil engineer by profession
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