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The Gujarat sultanate,
brought in another provincial style to Gujarat- the Indo-Saracenic
style, which drew heavily from both Islamic and Hindu art and architecture.
Good examples of this architecture blend can be seen in Ahmedabad,
Dholka, Cambay and Surat. But one of the greatest complexes of Indo-Saracenic
architecture, rivaling Fatehpur Sikri near Agra and Bidar in south
India, as one of the greatest Islamic complexes in India.
Champaner was earlier
the capital of the Chauhan Rajputs, who had their fort on 822 meter
high Pawagadh peak, a holy place of pilgrimage. On the hill can
be seen the old fort with its superb rocky defenses, the Makai
kota where the rulers kept their grain, the ruins of Patai Rawal
palace, Naulakha kotha mansion, the 11th century Laukalish temple,
wells and numerous religious monuments.
In order to conquer
this fort which would not be possible by direct assault was impossible,
Sultan Muhammad Beghada built a city, Muhammadabad near the fortified
hill of Pawagadh, awaited chance for a suitable seige. The main
monument in the citadel of Muhammad Shahs citadel in Champaner,
beside the high walls and custom house, is the Jumma masjid(1513
A.D.), with an exquisitely carved entrance, a vast and imposing
courtyard surrounded by cloistered galleries, and intricate all
that speak of the quality of the artisans who worked at Champaner.
The elevation in
the front shows 5 pointed arches and slim minarets flanking the
central arch, perfectly proportioned. The Shahr masjid with 4 rows
of ornate pillars, domes and delicate carved mihrabs, Nagina masjid
with a fine arcade and Kevda masjid is also a sight not to go unmissed.
Accomodation
Accomodation can
be availed at Hotel Champaner(Gujarat tourism), Dharamshalas at
Machi, Pawagadh.
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