The history of Pakistan has been shaped by invasions, occupation, and the contributions of diverse cultures and civilizations from around the world. Pakistani culture as a consequence is rich in traditions, foods, arts, architecture, and languages; it’s one of the most fascinating aspects of travelling to Pakistan.
Most Pakistani people are not aware of the historical significance of their buildings and sites, but if you know where to look, you can discover many historical buildings in Pakistan that will transport you back in time and make you wonder why they aren’t better known. These 10 Historical Buildings of Pakistan have stood the test of time and continue to impress visitors today.
Here are ten of the most iconic historical buildings in Pakistan.
1) Badshahi Mosque
The Badshahi Mosque is one of the most renowned historical buildings of Pakistan and mosques in Pakistan as well as a national heritage site. Located in Lahore, Punjab, it is an incredible example of Mughal architecture. Under the prosperous and blossoming rule of the sixth Mughal Emperor Muhi-ud-Din Muhammad also known as Aurangzeb, construction on this beautiful mosque began in 1671.
The mosque’s exterior is decorated with carved red sandstone with marble inlay, which is an important example of Mughal architecture. There are three largest mosques in Pakistan, and it is the largest mosque of the Mughal era. As a garrison during the British Empire, the mosque was one of Pakistan’s most iconic sights after the fall of the Mughal Empire.
2) Lahore Fort
Shahi Qila, also known as Lahore Fort, is one of the renowned historical buildings of Pakistan that you can visit. Originally built in the 11th century, this historical Lahore Fort was rebuilt in the 17th. It has been home to many ruling dynasties, from the Mongols to various Hindu sultans who ruled before the Mughals conquered.
The fort is believed to have been built on a site previously occupied by a Buddhist monastery. However, it was the Mughals who first established Lahore as their capital when they invaded India. Lahore’s fortress covers an area of more than 20 hectares and is situated at the northern end of the walled city. Among the 21 monuments, there are some that date back to the days of Emperor Akbar, and others that date back to other eras.
3) Tilla Jogian Complex
This place is a bit of a hidden gem in Pakistan historical buildings, but well worth the visit. Tilla Jogian Complex is not the type of building you typically come across.
It is commonly believed that Tilla Jogian has been a Hindu pilgrimage centre for at least 2000 years. An archaeological site dating back to the 1st century BCE is said to have been established here. Kanphata jogi was an ascetic order centred at Tilla Jogian, founded by Guru Gorakhnath, known for its ear piercings.
4) Shah Jahan Mosque – Thatta
Pakistani architecture is as diverse as the country’s landscape has numerous historical buildings of Pakistan, with a wide range of influences.
The Shah Jahan Mosque Thatta dates back to the 1600s and is a great example of the Indo-Saracenic style. As the central mosque for the city of Thatta in Sindh province in Pakistan, this mosque is also known as Jamia Masjid of Thatta.
5) Rohtas Fort
Rohtas Fort was built by Raja Sher Shah Suri in 1541. It is located near the city of Jhelum. Several monumental gates and large defensive walls make up the fort’s appeal. Rohtas Fort is one of the finest examples of historical buildings of Pakistan and Muslim military architecture in Central and South Asia and has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.
The Rohtas Fort’s walls still have evidence of bullets embedded within them which can be seen at close range while touring the structures. If you’re interested in learning more about the historical buildings of Pakistan, consider booking a tour with an authorized operator before heading over to Rohtas Fort.
6) Darbar Mahal
In the city of Bahawalpur, there is a beautiful palace known as the Darbar Mahal – one of the most famous buildings of Pakistan. Formerly, Bahawalpur was a princely state that used this building for courtly events and government offices. It was originally called Mubarak Mahal, and it was constructed by Bahawal Khan V. The building was completed in 1905.
Built-in the style of the Lahore Fort, the Darbar Mahal is constructed from red bricks. Through short corridors, four domes are connected to one another. There is a beautiful blend of red and white on this structure: the white roofline and windows dominate the exterior walls while the red exterior walls dominate the roofline.
7) Noor Mahal
Three years after the design for the Noor Mahal was completed, the construction began under the supervision of an Englishman named Mr. Heennan. While the British were in charge, it belonged to the Nawabs of Bahawalpur princely state. Currently, it is under the control of the Pakistan Army. Among all the historical buildings of Pakistan, Noor Mahal has a separate fan base due to its architecture.
There are aesthetically marbled, tiled floors in this palace, and there are spacious halls in this palace. It features high, colorful, and tastefully decorated ceilings with massive chandeliers. The monument is a magnificent work of architecture that would appeal to any history lover. In addition to its impressive facade, the interior of the building is equally impressive.
8) Mohatta Palace, Karachi
Shivratan Mohatta, a Hindu Marwari businessman, built the palace in 1927 in Clifton. It is a posh seaside resort that was designed by Muhammad Komail Hussain. Mohatta Palace is one of the historical and famous buildings in Karachi that are still in new condition. This palace covers 18,500 square feet (1,720 square meters) and features windows, stone brackets, spandrels, domes, and balustrades that display floral motifs.
With a polished staircase, doors opening within doors, and long unique corridors, the palace is made of teak wood and is designed with delicacy and elegance. The first floor of the palace consists of private rooms while the ground floor is dedicated exclusively to entertainment. There is a temple on the balcony of the Mohatta Palace dedicated to a Hindu God called Lord Shiva.
9) Altit Fort
The Altit Fort is one of the historical buildings of Pakistan and the most popular destination in Gilgit Baltistan. Travellers often visit it because it contains a wealth of cultural history. The fort was originally established as a Buddhist monastery and continued to be used for centuries as a mosque and village.
Through the use of the different natural levels of the rock, the fort has been built in six stages. Pamir, Hindukush, Karakorum and the Western Himalayan fortresses share a square layout with the fort.
There are two small storage spaces located on the east and western sides of the ground floor space that is accessible from the main entrance which faces Ulter. Baltit Fort was recognized for excellence in conservation in 2004 when it was nominated for World Heritage status.
10) Ranikot Fort
Tucked away between the frontiers of Sindh and Balochistan, Ranikot Fort is included in the historical buildings of Pakistan. It is a prominent example of classic Mughal architecture. With a circumference of approximately 32 kilometers, it is one of the largest forts in South Asia.
According to previous assumptions, the fort was constructed during the reigns of the Sassanids, Scythians, Parthians, and Bactrian Greeks. However, new evidence indicates the fort was built during the Nawab Wali Muhammed Leghari administration of Sindh and originated with the Talpurs. Not only is this fort historically significant, but it also offers breathtaking views of lush greenery and meandering rivers.
Conclusion
Pakistan is such a rich country with so much history. From its beautiful structures to the incredible people, it’s an oasis that deserves our attention. If you haven’t given this gem of a country any thought before, now is the time to get interested in Pakistan’s historical buildings! Read above for some historical buildings of Pakistan to visit and see. We’ve come to the end of this list of famous buildings of Pakistan and hope you enjoyed your reading.
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