The first time ever I visited a Jama masjid was in Old Delhi (Shahjahanabad). Later on, I got to learn that it’s not the only Jama masjid of the country; rather there are several such mosques in the country. One of the major tourist attractions of Fatehpur Sikri, Jama Masjid is a 17th-century monument that is among the largest mosques of India. Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikri is the most famous attraction one shouldn’t miss.
This mosque was among the first mosques to be built. Its architecture and planning were later used as a model for most of the congregational mosques built by the Mughals later. Jama Masjid of Fatehpur Sikri is an opulent monument and devotees from all over come here to pray. The mosque also has the Tomb of Salim Chishti, the famous Sufi saint, constructed with white marble.
History and Architecture of Jama Masjid Fatehpur Sikri
Akbar built Jama Masjid at Fatehpur Sikri in 1671. Akbar personally directed its construction. The monument is spread in an area of 165 meters in length and is built in a rectangular plan having a measurement of 542’X438’. Jama Masjid of Fatehpur Sikri has a large courtyard in the center for the public. By three sides, cloisters surround the central courtyard. On the western side is located the sanctuary. The most common entrance to the mosque is Buland Darwaza.
The mosque can be entered by three different gateways in three directions i.e. East, North, and South. The mosque went through several additions later on and the King’s gateway was the only one which remained untouched. In the center, the sanctuary façade has a massive fronton in rectangular form. It contains a large alcove and every side has a pillared arcade that shapes wings. A massive dome is put above the central nave which is accompanied by other smaller domes put on the wings.
Read Here – Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb
Jama Masjid of Fatehpur Sikri is also known as Jami masjid. Jami means Friday so also called Friday mosque. The mosque has two colonnaded halls located on both sides. These halls have two square chambers topped by domes. The main chamber of the mosque has been intricately carved with mihrabs along with two other chambers, smaller in size.
This mosque represents a fine transition in Islamic art. The traditional architecture of the mosque has been mixed with several local elements along with a beautiful Persian influence. Unlike other Mughal buildings in which squinches support the domes, the dome of this mosque is supported by corbelled pendentives.
Read Here – Akbar’s Tomb Sikandra
Ticket and timings of Jama Masjid
There is no entry charge for Jama masjid. Hence you don’t need to buy any tickets. The mosque opens at 6 AM and closes by 6 PM. Fatehpur Sikri is known for a lot of monuments and sites. This medieval city was once the royal residence of the Mughal emperors.
