Salimgarh Fort

Highlights

• Salimgarh Fort (also known as Salim's Fort) was built in 1546 CE in Old Delhi, on what was then an island of the Yamuna River, by Salim Shah Suri, the son of Sher Shah Suri.
• The Surid dynasty continued until 1555 CE, when Humayun regained control by defeating Sikandar Suri, the last ruler of the dynasty.
• During the Mughal period, particularly in later years, Salimgarh Fort continued to be of strategic significance.
• While constructing the Red Fort and the city of Shahjahanbad, several Mughal rulers, including Emperor Shah Jahan—who completed Shahjahanabad in 1639 CE—are believed to have camped at the fort.
• It is also said that Humayun camped there for three days before launching his successful campaign to recapture Delhi.

Dress Code

Modest, respectful clothing is expected at this site.

History

• •The location chosen for building the fortification was in the Delhi plains, with an elevation ranging between 80–110 feet (24–34 m), bordered by the Yamuna River on one side and the northern spur of the Aravalli range on the other.
• •This topography—with exposed rock formations at the fort site, proximity to the northeast-trending ridge, and alignment with the jama masjid (congregational mosque)—was seen as ideal for protection against erosion by the Yamuna.

Architecture

• •Salimgarh Fort has a triangular layout, with thick walls constructed using rubble masonry.
• •The fort features circular bastions and has undergone multiple phases of repair and restoration since its construction.
• •An arch bridge connects the fort to the Red Fort on its northeastern side.
• •This bridge was built during the reign of Emperor Jahangir and modified many times, and the gate at this point is known as the Bahadur Shah Gate.

Temple Layout

• •Salimgarh Fort has a triangular layout, with thick walls constructed using rubble masonry.
• •The fort features circular bastions and has undergone multiple phases of repair and restoration since its construction.
• •An arch bridge connects the fort to the Red Fort on its northeastern side.
• •This bridge was built during the reign of Emperor Jahangir and modified many times, and the gate at this point is known as the Bahadur Shah Gate.

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