This monument was constructed by Ali Adil Shah (1557-1580) in the year 1561 CE. The Gagan Mahal means heavenly palace. It was meant to serve the dual purpose, of a royal residence and council chamber and such witnessed many momentous deeds recorded in the history of Bijapur. It located within the citadel. The Mahal is a large rectangular hall with private apartments above it, suported by huge wooden pillars. There might have been galleries facilitating the ladies to watch the proceedings of the court. However, the most fascinating feature of this monument is its great central arch and a two constricted side arches, spanning the facade. Such a great span was desirable to have a clear open space between the facade and the Darbar Hall, unobstructed by pillars or masonary of any kind so that the king and his nobles could have an uniterrupted view of the assembly and the other military activities that took place in front of it. However, it affected the proportion of elevation of the Structure. The wooden ceiling of this hall was once supported by heavy beams, none of which now exists.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA

Dharwad Circle

The Gagan Mahal

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The Gagan Mahal

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