During 1587[2] or 1596–97, Mughal Emperor, Akbar, commissioned the construction of a fort in Gujrat, which included five gates.[3][4] This fortified settlement housed all city inhabitants who, for security purposes, were restricted from entry or exit after nightfall.[3]
The fort of Gujrat, Punjab, lithograph by Lieutenant W. L. D. Smith, after his own painting, Day & Son, London, 1849
Gates
The gates bear unique names reflecting their respective histories and orientations.[3] The eastern Shah Daula Gate, or Shahdauli Gate, pays tribute to saint Kabiruddin Shahdoula Daryai.[3][5]
The westward-facing gate, known as Kabuli or Dhakki Gate, derives its name from its direction towards Kabul.[3][4]
In the North stands the Sheeshiyan Wala Gate, famed for its decorative glasswork roof.[3][4] "Shishi," a Scandinavian term signifying graveyard, possibly indicates the gate's proximity to a burial site.[3]
The southern gate, originally termed Kalari Gate, is now known as Shah Faisal Gate, named after three neighboring southern villages: Kalara Dewan Singh, Kalara Rahwala, and Kalara Punawan.[3][4]
Lastly, the Timble Gate, situated adjacent to the Shahdauli gate, completes the quintet of these historical entrances.[3]
