Akbari Quadrangle: A Forgotten Jewel of the Lahore Fort
Nestled within the historic Lahore Fort, the Akbari Quadrangle stands as one of the oldest surviving structures from the Mughal era. This remarkable complex once housed the Akbari Mahal. It was originally built as part of Emperor Akbar’s grand vision when he shifted his capital to Lahore in 1586. For thirteen years, Lahore became the center of his imperial activities, leading to the development of several majestic structures, including this quadrangle.
Located at the easternmost end of the Lahore Fort complex, the Akbari Quadrangle was designed to serve both as a royal residence and an administrative center. It encompassed the Daulatkhana-i-Khas-wa-‘Aam, the Khwabgah-i-Jahangiri to its north, and the Hall of Red Sandstone with the Royal Baths to the west. These buildings, adorned with Akbar’s signature architectural elements, reflected the grandeur of the Mughal court. Renowned travelers and historians, including Father Edouard Leioton, Christofle de Vega, William Finch, and Abu’l Fazl, documented its significance, with reports of grand assemblies and even an unfortunate fire in 1597 that necessitated urgent repairs under Akbar’s orders.
Despite its historical importance, the quadrangle underwent significant changes under later Mughal rulers. Emperor Jahangir demolished parts of Akbar’s original palace to build his own structures, while Shah Jahan constructed the Diwan-i-‘Aam, further altering the space. The quadrangle continued to exist as a royal palace during Aurangzeb’s reign, as noted by historian Sujan Rai. However, its fate took a darker turn during the latter Mughal and Sikh era chaos when much of it was destroyed, and latter a haveli was built over its ruins. The first floor, containing a hammam in the southeast corner, seems to have been used for leisure rather than residence. A Sikh-era painting labels it as “Haveli Sarkaran Kashmir,” suggesting its association with the ruling elite.
British-era records, particularly J.P. Vogel’s Historical Notes on Lahore Fort (1911), describe the structure as a “large and plain building” used as a summer hospital, possibly linked to Sher Singh. While traditionally it has been associated with Maharaja Kharak Singh, no concrete evidence supports this claim. Successive neglect under colonial rule and post-independence governments led to further deterioration. Many parts of the Akbari Mahal were lost, and the quadrangle’s original structure faded into obscurity.
Recognizing its historical significance, the Walled City of Lahore Authority undertook an extensive conservation project to preserve the remaining portions of Akbari Mahal. Through careful restoration, this forgotten gem has been revived and is now open to the public, allowing visitors to witness a once-lost chapter of Lahore’s architectural heritage. Efforts are also underway to make the upper portions of the Sikh-era additions accessible, ensuring that the Akbari Quadrangle remains a vital part of our cultural legacy.
