Shahi Bridge in Jaunpur
The Shahi Bridge, also known as the Akbari Bridge or Munim Khan’s Bridge or the Mughal Bridge, the Bridge was constructed by Munim Khan, Governor of Jaunpur during the reign of Mughal emperor Akbar, to fulfill the emperor’s command; and hence the names given to the bridge.Shahi Bridge in Jaunpur History
The most prominent and notable Mughal structures found in the ancient city of Jaunpur, the 654-ft-long and 26-ft-wide bridge is built across the Gomti River whose construction took four years to complete, from 1568-1569. The earthquake in 1934 had caused much destruction to the Bridge, but subsequently it was restored to its originality. Henceforth, the bridge has registered itself in the protection & conservation list of the Directorate of Archaeology, UP.Shahi Bridge in Jaunpur Architecture
The design of the Bridge was proposed by an architect from Afghan, Afzal Ali. The Bridge was initially designed as having 10 openings which are arch-shaped, with additional 5 arched openings that were built to cover the channel.The bridge which is now used as a public roadway, provide Chhatris on both the sides for the visitors who can take a halt there to admire the river flowing down. These Chhatris were built by the Governor, Munim Khan.
The openings are supported by huge pillars which are hexagonally shaped to support the architecture. The broader sides of the pillars provide a support to the bridge whereas, the narrower top of the pillars give a stronghold to the Chhatris.
Other Structures
The newly-constructed bridge had a hammam (public bath house) on its north, which was eventually closed. The southern end of the bridge has a remarkable statue of a lion climbing over the elephant, which is said to represent the decline of Buddhism.Much impressed by the beauty and architecture of the Shahi Bridge, Sir Rudyard Kipling wrote a poem to honor the beautiful construction.
Address: Shahi Bridge Jaunpur, SH 5, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh
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