Agra Fort

The last stop of our weekend venture was the Agra Fort.  Most of its present structure was completed in 1573 under Moghul emperor Akbar, grandfather of Shah Jahan the Magnificent, who commissioned the Taj Mahal's construction.  According to legend Shah Jahan died in the fort with the Taj Mahal in sight, imprisoned by his own son after a coup.

At 94 encapsulated acres, the fort was amazing.  I enjoyed it just as much as the Taj Mahal.

As we walked toward the entrance, we could see the Taj from afar.

My favorite admonishment at the fort: "Thanks...for your sweet behaviour with co-visitors."

Here we are again with the Taj behind us.

It was visible just about everywhere we went inside the fort:

The hallways seemed to go on forever.  As in the Taj, the marble cutwork was astounding.

Locals kept at work as visitors gawked at the enormity of the place.

Former Moghul emporers sat inside this space to give morning decrees.

Subjects would stand here to receive instruction.  Those columns are solid marble.

There seemed to be beautiful architecture around every corner.

One last view of the gates:

What's this?!

We found a McDonald's between Delhi and Agra. While the restaurant itself isn't uncommon in India, this was the first time any of us had seen one housed in this traditional structure.

Once inside, however, we were reminded that we were still in India.

 

Looks more like a Chick-Fil-A sort of establishment if you ask me.

Speaking of which, it's time to come home.