Overview Located in Old Delhi , Red Fort is a major tourist attraction and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Mughal emperor Shah Jahan ordered the construction of this architectural marvel which served as the residence of Mughal emperors for nearly 200 years! Learn about the Red Fort , a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former residence of the Mughal emperors in Delhi . Explore its history, layout, buildings, and architectural style with Cultural India. The Red Fort (Lal Quila) remains one of the most popular tourist sites in Delhi and is on UNESCO’s list of World Heritage historic sites. History of the Red Fort Originally built by the fifth Emperor of India’s Mughal Dynasty, Shah Jahan in 1639, when he moved India’s capital from Agra to Delhi , the Red Fort was built as Shah Jahan’s new palace as well as being a defensive structure. Its name derives from the red sandstone bricks which make up its protective walls. The walls of the ... Red fort , popularly known as Lal Qila is a historical landmark located in Chandni Chowk, Delhi . Red Fort was originally known as 'Qila-I-Mubarak' which means a residence for a royal family. It was built by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in the mid 17th century. The red fort is spread over an area of 255 acres and comprises many buildings which are adorned with intricate carvings, floral motifs, double domes and a defence wall of 2.5 Km.