Fatehpur Sikri

This historic site was founded by Akbar the Great, who at the age of 26 did not have an heir. Fatehpur Sikri came into existence after Akbar visited a saint, Shaikh Salim Chishti, who lived in a city called Sikri. The saint’s blessing gave Akbar three sons.

As a gesture of gratitude, Akbar built an entire new city at Sikri. It was constructed between 1569 and 1585 and was intended to be the joint capital with Agra. However, it was soon deserted because the water system could not support the residents.

It remained untouched for over 400 years, and its palaces remain a reminder of the extravagance of the Mughals.