Fatehpur Sikri is a town in the Agra district of the Uttar Pradesh State now. The town has historical significance since it was built by the Mughal Emperor Akbar around 1570. Even before the reign of Akbar it was known as just Sikri near Fateh Nagar. Akbar converted the small area into a large township in honor of the Sufi Saint Salim Chisti. The Sufi Saint is said have predicted the birth of Akbar?s son Salim (Known as Jahangir later). Akbar planned the city imbibing Indo-Persian and the Islamic architecture and made it as his capital for a few years. The city retains the past grandeur and heritage partially. It is in this city that Akbar is said to have given patronage to nine ?Ratnas? or the nine courtiers. The great singer Tansen is said to have been one among them. Fatehpur Sikri is well connected to Agra since Agra is just 34 km drive from the city. One can reach Fatehpur Sikri via Agra or, can reach via Delhi also. Those who travel by train can get down at Fatehpur Sikri station. Those who visit Agra usually make a trip to Fatehpur Sikri also. Places to see: ? Jama Masjid: It is an old structure (It is a congregational mosque) built in that area. It is the most popular spots in Fatehpur Sikri. The structure includes a large courtyard and three prayer sites. Tiny ?Chatris? (umbrellas) placed in a row add to the elegance of the Masjid. The famous ?Buland Darwaja? has been built in southern direction of the mosque. Buland Darwaja was built in commemoration of Akbar?s victory over Gujarat. It was added much later after the construction of the mosque. ? Tomb of Salim Chisti: This is a mausoleum built in the memory of the Sufi Saint Salim Chisti whom Akbar revered a lot. The structure is inside the Jama Masjid complex only. It is an elegant domed structure with intricate carvings. ? Diwan i Am and Diwan i Khas: These two buildings were constructed for the purpose of gatherings. Diwan i Aam was meant for public gatherings and Diwan i Khaas was built for the private. Diwan i Khaas is a beautiful structure with an attractive central pillar. It is said that here, in this place, Akbar used to have inter-religious conferences. ? Other small buildings: You would get to see other buildings of less importance such as Panch Mahal, Anup Talao, Birbal?s house and the Naubath Khana.
