If you’re a fan of historical facts, literary anecdotes connected to stories of the past, architectural marvels that have been standing all tests of time and still convey age-old narratives, this piece is for you!
Put these 5 historically-rich and magnificent places on your list and radar if you identify yourself as a history buff, for the next time you land in Ahmedabad. These are some places that, undoubtedly, give glimpses into the life of their founders and the people of yore.
Kankaria Lake
A lake that goes around in a circle, clinging to a piece of land that connects all the way to centre? This architectural delight, Kankaria Lake, also carries a long legacy of 572 years and has been the pride of the citizens of Ahmedabad since its inception in 1451.
The manmade lake, commissioned by Muzaffarid Dynasty’s Sultan Muizz-ud-Din Muhammad Shah II, is located near the Maninagar area and often fits the title of Ahmedabad’s second largest lake.
Sabarmati Ashram
The Sabarmati Ashram is a site that still preserves the history of Mahatma Gandhi, while carrying tales of the freedom struggle. Located in Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati suburb, on the banks of River Sabarmati, this was one of Bapu’s residences.
The aim of the ashram to exist as a living conveyor of the past is to educate masses about the teachings, philosophies, and ideals followed by Gandhi.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid, a 599-year-old marvel of a mosque in Ahmedabad, is built in the old walled city area of Ahmedabad. Commissioned by the city’s founder, Ahmed Shah I, in 1411, the mosque is said to have been completed in 13 years.
Functioning as a private shrine of Gujarat Sultans at the time, the majestic place today stands as a sacred spiritual site, with a magnificent façade.
Bhadra Fort
Regarded as a cultural centre of the city today, the historical Bhadra Fort of Ahmedabad was built in 1411 by Ahmad Shah I. The fortress of red stone encompasses within its arms intricately carved regal palaces, gates, mosques, and courtyards.
Another historical relevance of the fort is connected to the colonial era where the fort was used by the British as a prison until Independence. It was later renovated in 2014 by AMC and the ASI.
Hutheesing Temple
Constructed in 1848 by a mercantile family of Hutheesing, Ahmedabad’s Hutheesing Temple is flocked by Jain devotees till date. The temple bathes in superior architectural shades for its an amalgamation of ancient Maru-Gurjara temple style and modern architectural elements of haveli.
Situated outside the Delhi Gate, the historical landmark in the form of the temple is built of white marble and engulfs well-defined structural features.
