Kalaburagi Fort, as the name suggest, is located in Kalaburagi (earlier Gulbarga) district of Karnataka Gulbarga was the first capital of Bahamani dynasty from 1347 to 1424 AD. Bahamani was the first independent Muslim empire in the Deccan region. Therefore, we can see the Islamic persian influence in Kalaburagi.
Features of Kalaburagi fort:
The fort has an area of approximately 57 acres and is surrounded by a moat (a wide channel filled with water for defensive purpose). There are 2 layers of fortifications with outer fort wall lesser height and inner fort wall of greater height, that served as a strong defence.
Bara Gazi Toph
There are Around 15 towers with 26 canons. Meet the Bara Gazi Toph, supposedly one of the longest cannons in the world, is inside this fort. It measures about 29 feet in length.
Jama Masjid:
The main attraction here is the Jama Masjid or Friday Mosque. It is one of the earliest Friday mosques in South India. The jama masjid is designed by a persian architect, Rafi during the reign of Mohamad shah I. It is said that it resembles the Great Mosque of Cordoba, Spain. The Jama Masjid is a prime example of Indo-Islamic architecture.
The fort also played a significant role in the political history of South India, witnessing the rise and fall of several dynasties. Kalaburagi is destination for history enthusiasts, architects, and travelers seeking to explore India’s medieval heritage.
How to Reach
It is located at approx. 4.5 km from Kalaburgi railway station and 3 km from Kalaburagi Central Bus Stand.
Also visit Haft Gumbaz, which is approximately 1.5 km from Kalaburagi Fort.
Nearby Attractions:
Haft Gumbaz, Sharana Basaveshwara Devasthana, SHOR Gumbad
References- https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/a-fort-that-symbolises-independence-of-deccan-from-the-clutches-of-delhi/article68553267.ece
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jama_Mosque,_Kalaburagi#References
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jama_Mosque,_Kalaburagi
karnataka gazetteer
https://bangaloremirror.indiatimes.com/news/state/discoverers-worry-for-the-worlds-longest-cannon/articleshow/56207207.cms
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Fort View
