Global Treasures: Red Fort Agra

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1189

UPC: 879061007880

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

A massive red sandstone wall surrounds the Red Fort of Agra, a great and historic city 200 kilometres southeast of Delhi. Almost 2.5 kilometres long and at an average height of 20 metres, the wall contains several well-fortified bastions that have been used by the Indian army right up to the present day.

The east side of the Diwan-I-Am is connected to the Macchi Bhawan, a beautiful courtyard that is surrounded on three sides by a two-story building complex. It is believed that the legendary golden throne of the great moguls was kept in the southern wing.

In addition to the private audience hall of the moguls, the Diwan-I-Khas, the private chambers of Shah Jahan, are one of the fort's most fascinating sights.

But 1658 proved to be a tragic year for Shah Jahan, as his son Aurangzeb arrested him and removed him from power. From his prison cell, he was able to see one of the most famous symbols of his former regime, his favorite wife's fantastic mausoleum, the Taj Mahal.