The Shish Mahal (The Glass Palace)
Agra, India
- Admire the intricate mirror-work
- Explore the royal bath area
- Learn about Mughal history
- Take photos of the shimmering reflections
Known for:
Description:
Sheesh Mahal, meaning 'Palace of Mirrors', is an exquisite part of Agra Fort. Its walls and ceilings are intricately inlaid with thousands of tiny mirrors that create a dazzling spectacle when illuminated. The hall was used by Mughal royalty as a summer retreat. The reflective surfaces would shimmer in the candlelight, creating an illusion of stars and offering a cool respite from the summer heat. The lower level, once a dressing room, features fountains and channels that likely provided cooling water. The interplay of light and shadow, combined with the intricate glasswork, makes Sheesh Mahal a truly mesmerizing experience.
History:
Sheesh Mahal was built by Shah Jahan in the mid-17th century within the Agra Fort complex. It served as a private royal bath and dressing area. The intricate mirror work is a testament to the Mughal passion for exquisite craftsmanship and luxury. The design was intended to create a magical and ethereal ambiance. The thousands of convex mirrors, along with the strategically placed candles, would reflect and multiply the light, creating a breathtaking spectacle. While the original purpose was a retreat from the heat, it also served as a symbol of the Mughal Empire's opulence and power.