HERITAGE SITE | ROHTAS FORT

• Strategically built between Afghanistan and the Punjab region, the Rohtas Fort was commissioned by Sultan Sher Shah Suri, who established the Sur Empire. Refusing to submit to the Mughals, Sultan Sher Shah Suri ordered the construction of the fort as a means of defence against enemy advances as well as to suppress local tribes who were allies to the Mughals. The formidable structure was constructed in 1541CE and since it was never really attacked throughout its history, much of its architecture has remained remarkably intact and unchanged. 

• The Rohtas Fort has twelve gates, the most impressive of which is the Sohail Gate. This gate best illustrates the masonry work of the Sur Empire and is named after a saint who lived in the city and is interred at its base.

• The Shishi gate displays the first examples of glazed tile work. This art was later refined in Lahore and taken to even more impressive heights.

• Near the Kabuli Gate, stands the Shahi Musjid (Royal Musjid). The Musjid itself is the most decorated of all the fort’s buildings with Quranic verses inscribed upon its outer walls and the name of Allah carved into the centre of sunflower-shaped designs. While no domes are visible from the exterior, inner domes are visible upon entry into the Musjid. 

• The fort also contains three baolis (stepwells) with steps carved from stone and which served as a watering station for horses, elephants and soldiers.