Golconda Fort

Golconda Fort is located in southern state of Andhra Pradesh. A look at this monumental place and you are sure to find an ancient city within it. Golconda Fort is one of the most popular and historical monuments of India. This piece of immense importance belongs to the era of Qutb Shahi Kingdom. This kingdom was one of the most powerful in the southern region. The origin of word ‘Golconda’ is credited to Telugu word ‘Golla Konda’. The meaning of the word is ‘Shepherd’s Hill’. It was not only a strategically important place but also the center of thriving diamond business. This famous fort has a proud history. Its origin goes back to 1143 when then reining ruler of Hindu Kakatiya dynasty built it. It is generally believed that a shepherd boy saw idol of a God and that inspired the ruler to built the structure.

The fort has been built on the granite hill that has height of 120 meters. Qutb Shahi dynasties made this magnificent structure its current day stature and prominence. The dynasty expanded the basic structure over a period of 62 years. Its circumference was 5 km and from a mud fort it was turned into granite fort. Famous diamonds like Kohinoor, Regent, Darya-e Nur and Hope etc were discovered in the mines of Golconda. The architecture of the fort is a wonderful mixture of Hindu and Muslim architectural styles. Its one of the most visited place in south India.