Golconda Fort

Golconda fort was the capital city of Qutb Shahi Kingdom, 8km. west of Hyderabad, Andra Pradesh. In 1687 this city was conquered by Aurangazeb and annexed to the mughal Empire. The Golconda fort is 5 km. in circumference. During the reign of Qutb Shahi kings this fort was rebuilt with granite and iron. Tombs of Qutb Shahi rulers, palaces and mosques still remain intact. The ventilators in the walls are designed so as to let continuous availability of fresh air. There is a secret underground path from the fort to one of the palaces in the hill slopes. Golconda fort was a famous trade centre for diamonds derived from rocks of the surrounding hills.