Kathi Darwaza

Kathi Darwaza is a historic gateway located in old city of Srinagar, built in 16th century by Mughal emperor Akbar. Kathi Darwaza along with Sangeen Darwaza serves as gateways to the citadel(Hari Parbat Fort) built on Koh-e-Maran hill.

Overview
The Kathi Darwaza, the Sangeen Darwaza, and a citadel (Hari Parbat Fort) were built by the Mughal emperor Akbar in 16"century c.e. The rampart of the citadel covers an area of 5kms in circumference. It is pierced through a number of gates, out of which, Kathi darwaza on the south-east and Sangeen darwaza on the western side are the two prominent gateways. they were built, keeping in view of the security of the royal establishment and strategic importance of the hillock. the fortification of Hari parbat was started by Akbar but the entire fort was built by Afghans.

Structure
The Kathi Darwaza has an arched gateway with small raised up platform on both sides for the alert watchmen. it is connected with the battlemented wall on east and west with large bastions on either sides. its facade laid out delicately with carved stone slabs is decorated with rectangular arched panels, two projected lotus medallions and Persian inscriptions describing the foundation of the city of Akbar. The inside passage of the gateway is flanked by widely carved panels with a vaulted ceiling resting on the back walls of the recesses. The other side of the archway facing the hill is simple, two stair cases has been laid out on either sides which lead to the domed chamber above.