India: Amer – Amber Fort
Amber Fort is more of an opulent 16th century palace then a fort, built by Rajput Maharajas near the city of Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. Sometimes referred to as Amber Palace, it sits in a stunningly picturesque location above a valley and below a mountain ridge (with another fort). It is made from light yellow sandstone and marble and consists of four levels, each with a different courtyard and all lavishly decorated. Diwan-e-Aam aka Hall of Public Audience is the first level, Diwan-e-Khas aka Hall of Private Audience is the second level, Sheesh Mahal aka Mirror Palace is third, and finally Sukh Niwas is the royal residence. The Mirror Palace is particularly stunning with elaborate small mirror decorations of a marble mosque. Amber Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
