Indo Islamic Heritage
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Hauz-i-Shamsi (or Shamsi Talab) is a historical water reservoir built by Sultan Iltutmish, a ruler of the Delhi Sultanate from the Slave Dynasty, in 1230 CE. It was constructed to provide water to the residents of Delhi and surrounding areas. The name "Hauz-i-Shamsi" translates to "sunny water tank," possibly referring to the clarity of its water or its location in a sunlit area. The Nearest Bus Stand - Mehrauli Terminal, The Nearest Metro Station - Qutub Minar, Nearest Railway Station- New Delhi Railway Station Railway Station Nearest Airport- IGI
Hauz-i-Shamsi, originally covering an area of 2 hectares (4.9 acres), was a significant historical reservoir built by the Sultan of Delhi, Iltumish, in the 14th century. The tank was constructed to supply water to the city and served both functional and religious purposes. In the center of the reservoir stood a domed pavilion, constructed by Iltumish to mark the location of a religiously significant footprint. According to tradition, the footprint was said to belong to the horse of Prophet Muhammad. The pavilion itself is a double-storeyed structure made of red sandstone, supported by twelve pillars. Originally, the pavilion could only be reached by boat, emphasizing its unique and sacred location within the tank. However, today, a footbridge exists, allowing easier access. The stone on which the footprint of Muhammad's horse was originally imprinted was housed in the pavilion, making it a revered site. While the original stone has since been removed, it has been replaced by a new one, maintaining the religious and cultural significance of the place. The water contained in the tank was considered sacred by many, believed to hold a divine essence due to its association with the religious landmark. Over time, the area around the reservoir became a prominent burial site for many notable emperors and saints, who were laid to rest along its periphery, further adding to the tank's spiritual importance. However, the size of the reservoir has significantly reduced over the years due to encroachments and natural processes like siltation. As a result, the pavilion, which was originally located at the center of the tank, is now situated on the eastern edge of the remaining water body. This reduction in the size of the reservoir has altered the landscape, but the historical and religious significance of Hauz-i-Shamsi remains an important feature in the history of Delhi.
Year of Built: 13th Century
Address: Aam Bagh, Khandsa Colony, Mehrauli, New Delhi, Delhi
Country: India
State: Delhi
District: South Delhi
Pincode: 110030
Longitude: 77.178333
Latitude: 28.514167