Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was a great warrior and strategist in Indian history, who laid the foundation of the Maratha Empire. His bravery, intelligence and administrative skills made him an immortal personality.Shivaji Maharaj built and renovated many forts (Forts Associated With Shivaji Maharaj) to protect and expand his empire. These forts were not only important from a military point of view, but also a symbol of his strategic thinking. An initiative is underway to get 12 of these forts recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Let us know about the 12 major forts associated with Shivaji Maharaj.
Famous forts of Shivaji Maharaj
- Raigad Fort- Located in Raigad district of Maharashtra, this fort was the capital of Shivaji Maharaj. It is also called ‘Gibraltar of the East’. This fort is famous for its impenetrable structure and historical importance.
- Sindhudurg Fort- Located on the Malvan coast of Maharashtra, this fort is built in the Arabian Sea. It was built by Shivaji Maharaj to protect against sea attacks. This fort is known for its architecture.
- Torna Fort- Located near Pune, this fort was the first fort won by Shivaji Maharaj. This fort is considered a symbol of the rise of the Maratha Empire.
- Rajgad Fort- Located in Pune district, this fort is a symbol of the power and strategic strategy of Shivaji Maharaj. This fort is famous for its height and strong structure.
- Shivneri Fort- This fort is the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. Located near Pune, this fort is very important from a historical and cultural point of view.
- Salher Fort- Located in Nashik district, this fort is a symbol of the military power of the Maratha Empire. This fort is known for its height and security system.
- Sinhagad Fort- Located near Pune, this fort is famous for the saga of bravery of Tanaji Malusare. This fort is an important part of Maratha history.
- Lohagarh Fort- Located in the Bhiwandi area of Maharashtra, this fort is known for its impenetrable structure. It is also called the ‘Giant Fort’.
- Panhala Fort- Located near Kolhapur, this fort is the largest fort of the Maratha Empire. This fort is famous for its historical and cultural heritage.
- Ankai-Tankai Fort- Located in Nashik district, this fort is built on two hills. This fort is known for its natural beauty and strategic importance.
- Padmadurg Fort- Located in Ratnagiri district, this fort was built to protect against sea attacks. This fort is known for its unique structure.
- Pratapgad Fort- Located in Satara district, this fort is a symbol of Shivaji Maharaj’s military strategy. This fort is known for its historical battles.