Pakistan boasts some amazing historical places, from remnants of ancient civilizations and grand Mughal architecture, to Sufi mysticism, Sufism, and Sufis. These amazing historic landmarks give us a peek into Pakistan’s rich past.
Mohenjo-Daro, an ancient city from the Indus Valley Civilization, and now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site is our first stop! A truly iconic symbol of India!
Lahore Fort
Lahore Fort was once at the center of Mughal empire. Rebuilt from brick, its walls under Emperor Akbar were extended with sky-long castles atop them; later his successors including Jahangir and Shah Jahan added their own palaces and gardens to it. Today it remains a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Bab Akbari (Khbry drwzh), located on the eastern flank of Qila’, serves as its main entryway. Elevated above ground and large enough to fit an elephant through its entranceway, the gate also hosts Maryam Zamani Masjid which was built by Jahangir in honor of his mother Maryam Zamani Masjid is housed within this gate.
Other notable structures within the fort include Diwan-e-Khas or Hall of Private Audience and Peacock Throne; latter was an elegant seat of power adorned with precious gems and metals; massive Picture Wall also draws visitors in with its mix of Islamic and Christian themes;
Shalimar Gardens
Shalimar Gardens, or the Lost Paradise, were constructed during the Mughal era by Emperor Shah Jahan. An unprecedented combination of nature and construction techniques was completed within just one year – in 1642!
Initial ownership of the garden site belonged to the Arain family of Baghbanpura who received royal recognition by being granted the royal title ‘Mian’ due to their services during Mughal rule. Due to its abundant water source, naturally tiered terrain and rich soil quality it was chosen as the site for Shalimar Gardens.
UNESCO has named this magnificent complex a World Heritage Site and one of only few examples of Mughal garden architecture that remains in pristine condition. Join internationally award-winning landscape and garden designer Iftikhar Ahmed – direct descendant of Mian family – on a virtual tour and exploration of this stunning property and gain insights into its rich history, architectural significance, and personal ties.
Makli Necropolis
Makli is one of the world’s largest necropolises and was used for burials of fourteenth to seventeenth-century kings, princes, and saints from various traditions from around the globe between 1470-1710 CE. Built using unique Chaukhandi architecture combining influences from Muslim, Hindu, Persian and Gujarati architectural traditions; tombs here boast tombs decorated with tombstones constructed using this technique.
The cemetery boasts many important tombs of Samma Dynasty rulers. These can be found grouped together in a 5-acre section. In addition, tombs belonging to Arghuns, Tarkhans and Mughals can also be found here. These tombs show strong influences from Central Asian architecture while Jam Nizamuddin II’s tomb features an unusual canopie with Gujarati influences.
The Necropolis is also home to mosques, khanqas (Sufi learning spaces), and enclosures; making it a beautiful spot to visit during Eid al-Fitr festivities. Unfortunately, however, its current state is dire; many tombs have been damaged and require repair due to inadequate management by local authorities.
Taxila
Taxila, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Gandhara culture and history, features a museum with more than 7,000 artifacts that is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM six days a week; it closes Fridays and on certain national holidays.
Taxila (also known as Takshashila) was once an ancient town which thrived for centuries due to the many trade routes running from South Asia into Central Asia and beyond. Today, its remnants can be found near Pakistan’s capital Islamabad.
Excavations has revealed several structures, such as Bhir Mound (5th century BC to 1st century AD) which was without defensive walls or regular streets layout, while Sirkap (2nd century BC – 2nd century CE), inspired by Hellenistic traditions, had regular street layouts with an acropolis in place.
