Golconda Fort Hyderabad

Golconda fort is one of the most renowned and historical edifices in India that is located on the western fringes of the Hyderabad city. The fort stands atop a hill with an elevation of 120 feet and is surrounded by crenulated bulwarks. The term Golconda has evolved from the Telegu term- Golla Konda and literally means ‘Shepherd's Hill'. The monument tells volumes about its four hundred years old cultural heritage. This historical structure was constructed by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah in 1525 and it epitomizes the grandeur of Nawabi culture. Then over the period of sixty-two years the architectural additions in the edifice was made by the Qutub Shahi kings and it was transformed into a colossal fort with granite facades. The Golconda Fort that withstood the ravages of time over the years is a living testimony to the historic events that has taken place in Hyderabad. In the bygone era the fort was famed for its diamond trade.

One of the most noteworthy characteristics of the Golconda Fort is the system of the acoustics which consists of hand clapping that can be heard from a particular point below the dome and echoes around the entire place. Apart from this there is an ingenious water supply system which has even amazed the engineers of the present age.

It is believed that there were also underground tunnel whose path started from the Durbar Hill and continued till the end of the foothills. There are also tombs of Qutub Shahi kings that are constructed in Islamic architectural style and have exquisitely carved stonework.

Another great attraction of the fort that is not to be missed is the Sound and Light show that is conducted by Andhra Pradesh Tourism and it tells the legend of Golconda with the help of audio-visual effects.

Quick Facts

• Location: The Golconda Fort lies in the western outskirts of Hyderabad

• Built By : The fort was built by Quli Qutub Shah in 1525

• Famous For : Palaces, Ingenious Water Supply System, Acoustics and Diamond Trade