Shalimar Gardens:
Shalimar Garden, also known as Shalimar Bagh, is a historic Mughal garden located in Lahore, Pakistan. It is renowned for its exquisite beauty, stunning architecture, and rich historical significance. Here is an expanded history and description of Shalimar Garden:
Shalimar Garden was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan, the fifth Mughal emperor of India, in 1637. Shah Jahan, who is also known for constructing the Taj Mahal, ordered the construction of the garden as a token of his love and admiration for his wife, Empress Nur Jahan. The garden was initially named "Bagh-e-Faiz Baksh," meaning "The Garden of Bounty."
The construction of the Shalimar Garden was completed in 1642 under the supervision of Ali Mardan Khan, a renowned Mughal noble. The garden served as a retreat for the Mughal emperors and their royal family, providing them with a peaceful and serene environment.
Location:
Shalimar Garden is located approximately 5 kilometers east of the Walled City of Lahore, near the northeastern bank of the Ravi River. It covers an area of about 80 acres and is situated on a slightly elevated terraced site. The garden's location was chosen for its proximity to water, as it is fed by a canal that diverts water from the Ravi River.
Layout and Design:
Shalimar Garden follows the traditional Persian and Mughal char bagh (four gardens) design. The garden is divided into three terraces, each with its distinct features and purpose.
1. The Upper Terrace: This is the highest level of the garden and is the most private section. It was reserved for the emperor and his family. The upper terrace features a marble pavilion known as the Diwan-e-Khas (Hall of Special Audience), where the emperor would hold private meetings and entertain guests.
2. The Middle Terrace:
The middle terrace is accessible from the upper terrace through a grand marble staircase. It is the largest section of the garden and contains several pavilions, including the Sawan Bhadon pavilion and the Aramgah pavilion. The middle terrace also houses numerous fountains, water channels, and lush green lawns.
3. The Lower Terrace: The lower terrace is the closest to the entrance gate and is the most public area of the garden. It consists of a large rectangular pool known as the Shah Nahar (The Imperial Watercourse). The Shah Nahar is adorned with beautiful fountains and surrounded by pavilions and pavements.
Architecture and Features:
Shalimar Garden showcases exquisite Mughal architecture and engineering. The garden features stunning symmetrical layouts, intricate marble inlays, and intricate stone carvings. The pavilions and structures within the garden are adorned with colorful frescoes, beautiful tile work, and intricate jali (lattice) screens.
The garden's water features, including fountains, cascades, and water channels, were ingeniously designed to create a serene and soothing atmosphere. The fountains were powered by a hydraulic system that utilized the gravitational flow of water from the Ravi River.
Significance and Heritage:
Shalimar Garden is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal garden design. It represents the Mughal Empire's emphasis on aesthetics, the fusion of Persian and Indian architectural styles, and the integration of nature and human creativity.
The garden has witnessed various historical events over the centuries, including the decline of the Mughal Empire and subsequent periods of political instability. However, restoration efforts have been undertaken to preserve and restore its original grandeur.
Today, Shalimar Garden is a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world.
