Kotwali Gate

The Kotwali Gate, commonly known as Kotwali Darwaza, is a medieval gate on the Bangladesh-India border. It marks the international border between the two countries in the northwestern region, dividing Chapai Nawabganj and Malda. It is a former arch and gateway to the ancient walled city of Gaur.

The contemporary condition of Kotwali Gate

Etymology

The name of the gate originates from the term Kotwal.[1]

History
Painting of Kotwali Gate in 1808

According to the Archaeological Survey of India, the structure dates back to the era of the Delhi Sultanate between the reigns of Iltutmish (r. 1211–1236) and Alauddin Khalji (r. 1296–1316).[2] According to the British Library, the gate may have been built after the capital of Bengal was re-established in Gaur by the Sultan of Bengal following the relocation from nearby Pandua in 1446.[3]

Architecture

The central arch, which was 9.15 meters high and 5.10 meters wide,[1] has now collapsed. The gate is part of the southern wall of Gaur. Minor decorative arches are still present on the wall. In addition to the collapsed arch, the gate also had semi-circular towers, battlements and apertures to defend the city.[1]

See also

References
  1. "Kotwali Darwaza - Banglapedia". En.banglapedia.org. 2021-06-18. Retrieved 2023-02-22.
  2. "ASI, Kolkata Circle".
  3. "Kotwali Darwaza, Gaur. 100391". Bl.uk. 2003-11-30. Retrieved 2023-02-22.

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