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EncyclopediaFatehpur SikriFatehpur Sikri or Fathpur Sikri (both: futupOOr' sik'rē) [key], historic city (1991 pop. 25,446), Uttar Pradesh state, N India. It was founded (1569) by the Mughal emperor Akbar to honor the Muslim saint Shaikh Salim Chishti, who had foretold the birth of Akbar's son and heir, Jahangir. The city was Akbar's capital until 1584. By 1605 it was largely deserted because of the inadequate water supply. A masterpiece of Muslim architecture, the city is unique in India as a nearly intact Mughal city. The Buland Darwaza [gate of victory], flanked by colossal statues of elephants, was the principal entrance. Carvings and murals cover many of the buildings. Among the most notable are the Jami Masjid (the Great Mosque); the ornate marble mausoleum of Salim Chishti; the palaces of Jodh Bai and Birbal; and the Panch Mahal, the royal audience hall. The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2007, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved. More on Fatehpur Sikri from Infoplease:
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