The first city of Delhi is believed to be the historical city of Lal Kot, also known as Qila Rai Pithora.It was established by King Anangpal Tomar in the 8th century AD. Lal Kot was the first significant fortified city in the Delhi region and marked the beginning of Delhi's urban history as a capital city.
Key points about Lal Kot:
1. Foundation: Lal Kot was founded around the 8th century by King Anangpal Tomar, a Chauhan Rajput ruler. It served as the capital of the Tomar dynasty.
2. Location: Lal Kot was strategically located on the elevated terrain of the Aravalli Hills, providing a natural defensive advantage. It is situated near the present-day Mehrauli area in South Delhi.
3. Fortification: The city was enclosed by massive fortifications made of red sandstone, giving it the name "Lal Kot" or "Red Fort." These fortifications were constructed to protect the city from invasions.
4. Historical Significance: Lal Kot played a significant role in the early history of Delhi and was the precursor to subsequent cities and capitals established in the Delhi region.
5. Expansion and Succession: Lal Kot was later expanded and succeeded by subsequent rulers and dynasties, including the Chauhans, Prithviraj Chauhan, and the Mamluks (Slave Dynasty), marking the transition from Hindu rule to Muslim rule in the region.
6. Transformation: The city underwent transformations over the centuries and became known by different names, including Mehrauli and Siri, as it continued to serve as a center of political and cultural activity.
It's important to note that Lal Kot represents the early phase of Delhi's historical development. Subsequent dynasties, including the Slave Dynasty, the Khilji Dynasty, the Tughlaq Dynasty, and the Mughals, played pivotal roles in shaping the city's history and establishing newer capitals within the broader Delhi region. Each dynasty left its own architectural and cultural imprint, contributing to the rich tapestry of Delhi's history. Today, the ruins of Lal Kot and its historical significance continue to be of archaeological and historical interest, attracting visitors and researchers from around the world.
