Buland
Darwaza is a 15-storied high gateway that guards the Northeastern
entrance of the city of Fatehpur Sikri. Historians have come to a
consensus that this building was constructed in the year 1575. It was
commissioned by Emperor Akbar to commemorate his victory over Khandesh
and Ahmednagar in Gujarat and Deccan respectively. The intimidating structure stands 43 meters or 140 feet on the pedestal and a cool 54 feet above the ground. The gateway is approached by a steep flight of 42 steps, which add height and majesty to the entire structure. Buland Darwaza that is counted as one of the tallest gateways in the world is almost entirely made out of the red-sandstone with a generous dose of marble decoration on it. The blend of Hindu and Persian architecture is very evident by the use of Quranic inscription on the front and pillar and Cenotaph on the heights of the gateway. The calligraphy work done on the inner façade of Buland Darwaza has very less parallels in India.
Buland Darwaza has a very famous inscription written on it. This inscription is actually a quote attributed to Jesus Christ, who is revered equally by both Christians as well as Muslims. It says, "The World is but a bridge, pass over but build no houses on it." that is almost ironical for a city that was abandoned in less than 15 years from the day it was constructed.
