DURGAM LAKE, JUBILEE HILLS

Let amongst spectacular rock formations of the Jubilee Hills area, this lake, whose existence was kept a secret to prevent sabotage during the times of war, was the source of water supply for the Golconda Fort, for centuries. Being located at an elevation greater than that of the highest palaces in the Fort, Durgam lake provided piped water under pressure to the palaces and the population of Golconda. It is an example of the engineering fests of the Golconda Kingdom and has been in use since 1500 AD.

Image Courtesy : Ms. Anuradha Reddy

HABSHI KAMAN

The Habshi Kaman (Abyssinian Guard Arches) located in the Golconda Fort area flank the main approach to the “Bala Hissans” or inner Fort. The Arches are a masterpiece of the early Qutub Shahi period (1518 – 1580 AD.). These ceremonial arches served the dual purpose of a Naubat Khana (Drum House) and the Check Point for entry into the inner Fort. Traditional conservation methodology is used by the Archaeological Survey of India in the repair work of the Arches.

Image Courtesy : Ms. Anuradha Reddy

MILITARY HOSPITAL, TRIMULGHERRY

Consequent on the unrest among soldiers during the First Indian War of Independence, in 1857, British Officers camped in this area. What started as a temporary camp of tents with a circular trench and embankments hastily put up as a line of defence soon took permanent shape. Draw bridges across the trenches with three arched entrance gates, strategically located water towers, ammunition magazines, officer’s quarters and other structures were added over a period of time. The entire precinct is distinctive by the scale and architecture of its component buildings. Each individual building is well maintained and the open spaces between the buildings are landscaped adequately. It gives a feeling of completeness – buildings and nature in total harmony.

Image Courtesy : Ms. Anuradha Reddy

PAIGAH TOMBS

These tombs of the Paigah Nobles of the erstwhile Hyderabad State are a magnificent example of intricate stucco decoration which has been a hall mark of the Deccan. Drawing heavily on the Mughal - Rajput schools of architecture while retaining the stucco heritage for ornamentation, the Tombs which date from 1786 AD onwards are a testimony to the skills of the craftsmen of erstwhile Hyderabad. A major part of the construction was undertaken during the mid-nineteenth century. This group of buildings is the jewel in Hyderabad’s crown, perhaps unparalleled in its beauty of craftsmanship and detailing.

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PITTI HAVELI, BEGUM BAZAR

The Pitti Haveli stands out for its architectural grace. A typical Rajput Architectural example from the late 19th century, it records the multitude of architectural styles, which were prevalent in Hyderabad a century back. The building itself is not worthy for its period layout extensive stain glass panels and intricate wood work. It stands today in all its elegance and is being partially used as a residence. It has great cultural and social importance apart from its architectural strengths, as it reflects the continuity with the past.

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ST. JOHN’S CHURCH, MARREDPALLI

Constructed in 1818 A.D. this Church follows the simple and bold lines typical of Indo-European architecture. A detached belfry was added in 1923 by the famous philanthropist Dewan Bahadur Seth Ramgopal. Although it has spanish influence, the tower blends well with the original structure. This elegant and beautifully proportioned white church in all its simplicity conceals a magnificent interior. The rich wooden ceiling, its alter and pews have been repaired and restored and not just with paint and brush but with an admixture of deep reverence. They now contrast stunningly with the freshly painted columns and walls. The conservation effort is a classic example of the love and affection that people have showered on this building.

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SPECIAL CITATION : SIR RONALD ROSS BUILDING, BEGUMPET


On the 20th of August, 1997, Sir Ronal Ross made his noble prize winning discovery of the transmission of the Malarial parasite at the Military Hospital, Begumpet. A typical example of British colonial construction of the period, the structure is listed under the Heritage Regulations of Hyderabad and is presently in the custody of Osmania University. The Hyderabad chapter of INTACH is also located in this building.

Image Courtesy : Ms. Anuradha Reddy