The 14 gates of Delhi are historical entry points that were built during the reign of various rulers, especially the Mughal Empire. These gates were part of the defensive walls of the city and were used for protection as well as to control entry and exit from the city.
Here are the 14 gates of Delhi:
- Ajmeri Gate - This gate faces towards Ajmer (Rajasthan) and is one of the prominent gates of Old Delhi.
- Lahori Gate - This gate faces Lahore (now in Pakistan), and it was built by Emperor Shah Jahan.
- Delhi Gate - Located near the Red Fort, this gate was used for ceremonial purposes and has a rich historical significance.
- Kashmiri Gate - It faces towards Kashmir and was an important entry point during the Mughal period.
- Turkish Gate - This gate is located near the Red Fort and is associated with the Turkish invaders.
- Chandni Chowk Gate - This gate is near the famous market of Chandni Chowk.
- Ajmeri Gate - This gate leads towards Ajmer, and its name is derived from that.
- Sher Gate - It is named after Sher Shah Suri, the ruler who extended Delhi's boundaries.
- Khooni Darwaza - This is infamous for the execution of political prisoners during the Mughal era.
- Zile Sultan Gate - It was built as part of the royal palace and serves as a defensive gateway.
- Kabuli Gate - Facing Kabul (Afghanistan), it connects Delhi with the northern regions.
- Mori Gate - Known for its distinctive name, it is located near the Old Fort.
- Sarai Rohilla Gate - This gate was part of the entry point from the Sarai Rohilla area.
- Mori Gate - An important gate located in the northern part of the city.
These gates have a significant historical and architectural legacy, representing Delhiβs rich cultural past. Most of them were part of the fortified walls of Old Delhi, built to protect the city from invasions and attacks.