Sikri

Sikri is a toponym that can refer to several places in South Asia, most prominently Fatehpur Sikri, a historic city near Agra in Uttar Pradesh, India.

Fatehpur Sikri was founded by Mughal emperor Akbar in 1571 and served as the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585. Located about 40 kilometers west of Agra, the city was intended as a grand imperial seat and ceremonial center. Its architectural ensemble includes palaces, audience halls, mosques, courtyards, and the Buland Darwaza, a monumental gateway. The structures are notable for their red sandstone and integrated water-management features, reflecting a sophisticated approach to urban planning for the period.

The city was abandoned after about a decade and a half, largely due to water-supply challenges and changes in political and administrative priorities. Today Fatehpur Sikri is preserved as a major archaeological site and is widely regarded as a high point of early Mughal architecture. In 1986, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical significance and well-preserved ruins.

Beyond Fatehpur Sikri, the name Sikri appears in multiple localities across India, including villages and small administrative settlements. These places are typically rural and less prominent than Fatehpur Sikri, with details varying by district and census data.