Tughlaqabad Fort

About Tughlaqabad Fort:

• It was built by the Ghiyathu’d-Din Tughluq (1321-25) who belongs to the Tughluq dynasty.
• The fortified city was built in four years on the rocky terrain, as a defence mechanism.
• Features 
  • It is in two parts, the citadel and palaces along the southern walls forming one unit and the city to the north the other.
  • The citadel is still intact, and the walls of palaces can also be discerned.
  • The city portion is, however, in extreme ruins, although one may make out the alignment of some of its streets.
  • Across the main entrance from the south is Ghiyathu’d-Din’s tomb is located.
  • It is faced with red sandstone relieved by marble, and with batter on the exterior, it is enclosed within high walls forming an irregular pentagon.
  • Ghiyathu’d-Din’s successor, Muhammad Tughluq (1325-51), added the small fortress of ‘Adilabad on the hill south of Tughluqabad, with which it shares the main characteristics of construction.

Key Facts about the Archaeological Survey of India

• Under the provisions of the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act of 1958 (AMASR Act, 1958), the ASI administers more than 3650 ancient monuments, archaeological sites and remains of national importance. 
• It also regulates the Antiquities and Art Treasure Act, of 1972. 
• It was established in 1861 by Alexander Cunningham (He also became its first Director-General). 
  • HQ: New Delhi. 
• Nodal Ministry: It is an attached office to the Ministry of Culture.

Q1) What is a citadel?

A citadel is a fortified area in a city or town that is used as a defensive stronghold. Citadels are typically built on high ground, such as a hill or a rocky outcrop, and they often feature walls, towers, and other defensive structures.

Source: Delhi HC tells ASI to remove encroachments in Tughlaqabad Fort