Forts tell the tale of the past glory of rulers across the country. Jagtial Fort also throws light on the rich history of rulers but stands out because it is the only star-shaped fort in Telangana that is fitted with canons.
The Mughal dynasty used it as a Defence Fort in the 17 century. During the 17th century, the fort was designed by two European engineers – Jack and Tal. It is surrounded by four water bodies – Mote pond, Dharma Samandar, Mupparaap and Kandla Palli. The place, later known as Jagtial, was inspired by the names of these two engineers. True to its name, the fort is a must visit for heritage lovers and tourists keen on culling out the history of rulers and dynasties. It bears a strong resemblance to the castles of Europe.
According to Archaeological Department officials, it was built during the reign of Nawab Ibrahim, a Governor in the Mughal dynasty. The fort has two wooden gates, which were lifted by using pulleys. This is the only star-shaped fort in the State with a moat (water body).
History says that there used to be a row of rooms for the storage of ammunition at this fort. Though a majority of structures of the fort have been destroyed over the years, the well is safe and provides water to locals in the region.Located about 50 km from the Karimnagar district headquarters, the fort stands as a testimony to the bravery of soldiers who fought here. This ancient and historic monumental structure, a special attraction of Jagtial town, is now in a state of neglect and the precious lands are on the verge of the encroachment. Though the Archaeology Department took measures to reconstruct the walls, their efforts proved to be inadequate.
Assistant Director (Archaeology) N. Mallikarjun Rao said that the then Nizam government had declared Jagtial Fort as a protected monument. He said that they had decided to construct a cannon gallery with the existing 43 cannons. We are planning to construct a pedestal for the cannons and educate people about the importance of the fort, he added.
HOW TO REACH JAGTIAL:
Distance from Hyderabad - 190 km
From Karimnagar - 50 km
FACTFILE:
Designed by two European engineers – Jack and Tal and the name, Jagtial, is inspired by their names
Built during the reign of Nawab Ibrahim, a Governor in the Mughal dynasty
This is the only star-shaped fort in the State with a moat
It is now in a state of neglect and precious lands are on the verge of encroachment
The then Nizam government had declared Jagtial Fort as a protected monument
