Qila Mubarak, Patiala


Qila Mubarak is an ancient fortress of Sikh architecture in Patiala, India.

History

Quila Mubarak was first built as a 'Kachigarhi' by Sidhu Jat ruler Baba Ala Singh in 1763, who was the founder of the Patiala dynasty. Later, it was reconstructed in baked bricks. The interior portion of Quila, which is known as Quila Androon is built by Maharaja Amar Singh.

Quila Mubarak complex

The residential palace of Royal family of Patiala, Qila Mubarak complex is built in ground in the heart of the city. The whole complex contains Ran Baas and the Darbar Hall besides Quila Androon. There is also underground sewerage system in the Quila.

Quila Androon

Quila Androon has 13 royal chambers with scenes from Hindu mythology painted in the Patiala art style.

Museum of Armoury & Chandelier

The Darbar Hall contains rare cannons, swords, shields and maces, daggers of Guru Gobind Singh, and sword of Nadir Shah.

Restoration work

Being a 300-year-old building, the Quila is described as being in 'bad shape' and has been extensively damaged. The fortress is described by the World Monuments Fund as one of world’s 100 "most endangered monuments" in year 2004.
Restoration work of Quila has been undertaken by Indian National Trust for Arts and Cultural Heritage, which has been financially assisted by the state and national governments Archaeological Survey of India. The World Monuments Watch has also funded its preservation.