The cities of Delhi (top) and the Tomb of Khan Khana
The cities of Delhi (top) and the Tomb of Khan Khana: The present urban area dates back to the 12th century A.D. Before India was colonised by the British, there were seven sites of previous cities (numbers 1 to 7). New Delhi was planned by Lutyens (number 8) and since Independence in 1947 the city has expanded greatly to the north-west (number 9). The Delhi Development Authority's Landscape programme links the cities, monuments and existing open spaces in two green belts. One of these belts runs along the Jamuna River and the other along the ridge west of the city. Key: Green = Landscaped programme areas, Red = Landscaped and restored monuments.
Shahjahanabad
Shahjahanabad: To many people Delhi is Shahjahanabad; the walled city with its famous Lal Quila and Jama Masjid. Grassy greens with flag-stones and red sand-stone pathways and buildings form pleasing contrast to the sunlight. The formal Mughal Gardens and water courses give way to more informal green open spaces.
Jama Masjid
Jama Masjid: The shaded area around the mosque shows where urban squatters were forcibly removed by the Government, in a controversial action, in order to "beautify" this great building. The lower level of the Masjid is surrounded by shops.
Tughlakabad
Tughlakabad: The Tughlaqs formed the first Mulsim dynasty in India with truly national ambitions. The Tughlaqs, often referred to as the "Slave Dynasty", were great builders and the massive fort is a monument to their reign. Over the centuries teh city fell into disrepair. Two thausand acres around the Fort have been landscaped and developed into forest. The land has been planted with a wide variety of trees, such as the Acacia Arabica, Eugenia Jambolana and several kinds of Ficus. Other more exotic Cassia, Eucalyptus and bamboo lend the area its colour.
Lalkot
Lalkot: The early Rajas of Delhi established their capital in the south of the present city. The Slave Kings extended this area into what is known as Lalkot, which includes the famous Qutb Minar. The first stirrings of an Islamic architectural style in India is evident.