Alai Darwaza: Built by Information, History in Delhi
About Alai Darwaza When visiting Qutb Minar, there are several other exciting attractions that you can see within the Qutb Complex, including the Alai Darwaza – the main gateway into the complex built between 1296 and 1316AD, making it one of the very oldest remaining ancient gateways to stay standing in Delhi. Alai Darwaza is a domed gateway, providing entrance into the southern side of the Quwwat-ul-Islam Mosque, which is now in ruins as Alai Darwaza was built in 1311 AD. The gateway building was constructed with red sandstone and inlaid white marble and elaborately decorated with carvings and inscriptions. The building is noted for the splendid use of symmetry in its design. Interestingly, Alai Darwaza was the first of four large gates that Alla-Ud-Din Khilji, who built Alai Darwaza, intended to make for the city. Unfortunately, he died after its construction and before beginning work on the other three gates. Future rulers must have kept his vision of the town private, as th...