Architectural Heritage of Orchha

Architectural Heritage of Orchha

For many years, Orchha has been known for its grand historical monuments and royal palaces. The architectural heritage of Orchha town has been included in the tentative list of UNESCO’s world heritage sites.

About Orchha

Orchha is the erstwhile capital city of the Bundela rulers. The town is steeped in history and is famous for its palaces and temples built in the 16th and 17th centuries. The architectural splendor of the monuments in Orchha reflects the glory of its rulers.

Orchha was founded in the 16th century by the Bundela chief Rudra Pratap Singh, who became the first King of Orchha.

The son of Rudra Pratap Singh, Bharti Chand (r. 1531-1554), shifted the capital from Garh Kundar to Orchha, because the site was a better place to fortify against the growing Mughal pressure.

If it makes it to the final list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites, it would be the 38^th site in India to form part of the treasured list.

Three historically famous sites in MP, including the rock shelters of Bhimbhetka, Buddhist monuments at Sanchi, and the Khajuraho group of monuments are among the 37 Indian heritage sites on the UNESCO list.

Orchha Architecture

The Bundela style architecture is a striking blend of Rajput architecture and Mughal designs. The Orchha Palace fort is heavily fortified with over 15 rounded bastions and three entrances. The fort complex consists of several connected structures that were erected over a period of time.

The word Orchha or Urchha means ‘hidden’. The reason for this naming is because the Bundelkhand Kings wanted to retreat from the Tughlaqs who rose to power in 15th century.

Established in 1501 by Maharaja Rudra Pratap Singh, Orchha has witnessed tough times as well as friendly relations with the Mughal Dynasty.

Orchha architecture has a blend of Bundelkhandi and Mughal influences.The structures are not only appreciated for their mesmerizing beauty but also for their intelligent engineering.

UNESCO’s World Heritage Site List

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to encourage the identification, protection and preservation of cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity. The ultimate goal of this international organization is to contribute to peace through maintaining and respecting dialogue among civilizations and cultures.

This is embodied in an international treaty called the Convention concerning the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage, adopted by UNESCO in 1972.

A World Heritage Site is a place that is listed by UNESCO for its special cultural or physical significance. The list of World Heritage Sites is maintained by the international 'World Heritage Programme', administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee.