Taxali Gate located in Lahore’s Walled City, is a piece of history. Even though the gate itself is gone, it holds stories from the time of the Mughal King Akbar. Built between 1575-1585, this area is like a living museum with ancient buildings lining the streets. It’s always been a lively part of the city and attracts tourists from near and far, thanks to its connection with the Mughal Royal Mint, known as “Tixaal.”
Set against the grand Badshahi Mosque, Taxali Gate invites you to discover the rich history that shaped this unique spot in Lahore. In this blog, Graana.com brings you a comprehensive guide to the historic Taxali gate of Lahore.
Location
Taxali gate is located near the main GT road, Lahore. It holds a quite significant place not only in terms of history but also in terms of location and accessibility.
The place itself is a gateway to the red light zone of the city. Besides that, there are multiple popular and historic landmarks and structures surrounding the area. The geographical coordinates of Taxali gate are The exact coordinates of Taxali Gate in Lahore are:
- Latitude: 31.563154
- Longitude: 74.309016
Historic Places and Landmarks Near Taxali Gate, Lahore
The area around Taxali Gate in Lahore is a treasure trove of historic places and landmarks, each weaving a narrative of the city’s cultural, architectural, and social history. From vibrant marketplaces and entertainment venues to spiritual sites and literary abodes, these landmarks collectively reflect the multifaceted heritage of Lahore.
The history of some of these places dates back to the Mughal era. In the following section, we have listed some of the most popular places located near Taxali Gate.
Taxali Mosque
Standing as a testament to the Mughal era, Taxali Mosque was constructed during the reign of Shah Jahan. Although the royal mint (Taxal) it was named after no longer exists, the mosque remains an enduring architectural marvel near Taxali Gate.
Sheikhupura Bazaar
Adjacent to Taxali Gate, Sheikhupura Bazaar is a significant historic marketplace known for its renowned shoe market. It holds cultural vibrancy and historical trade significance, featuring one of the largest Khussa markets in Pakistan. The bazaar also offers a variety of special foods, including the famous Sri Pai of Fazal Din, commonly known as Phajja.
Pakistan Talkies and Aziz Theatre
Serving as pioneers in the cinematic and theatrical history of Pakistan, Pakistan Talkies and Aziz Theatre near Taxali Gate are historic landmarks from the British Raj era. While Aziz Theatre has seen some structural changes, Pakistan Talkies Cinema stands as a reminder of Lahore’s early entertainment scene.
Presbyterian Church
The oldest Presbyterian Church, built during the British Raj, is a historic religious landmark near Taxali Gate. It stands as a symbol of the city’s colonial past and adds to the religious diversity of the area, coexisting with a gurdwara and mosque.
Havelis and Heritage Homes
The vicinity around Taxali Gate is adorned with historic havelis and heritage homes, including Haveli Dhiyan Singh and Haveli of Khushal Singh. These structures showcase intricate architecture, preserving the historical charm of Lahore.
Shrine of Peer Nogaza
Adding a spiritual touch to the area, the Shrine of Peer Nogaza near Taxali Gate is a historic site with cultural and religious significance. It has been a focal point for the local community over the years.
Literary Residences
Explore the residences of literary figures like Shah Hussein, Ustaad Daman, Mualana Altaf Hussain Haali, and Allama Muhammad Iqbal near Taxali Gate. These historic locations provide insights into Lahore’s rich literary history.
Residences of Prominent Personalities
Discover the historic residences of renowned figures like Mian Yousaf Salah ud Din, a distinguished socialite and grandson of Allama Muhammad Iqbal. These homes contribute to the historical and cultural fabric of the area.
History & Mughal Origins
Taxali Gate, a significant landmark in Lahore, has a history deeply rooted in the Mughal era. Named after a royal mint known as Taxal in the local language, the gate was initially one of the thirteen gates constructed by the Mughal emperor Akbar to fortify the city. During this time, Taxali Gate served as the location for the royal mint, contributing to the economic and administrative functions of the Mughal Empire.
Architectural Evolution
Over the centuries, Taxali Gate underwent several phases of construction and reconstruction. Despite facing the ravages of time, the historic Taxali Mosque, built during the reign of Shah Jahan, remains as a testament to the architectural grandeur of the Mughal era. The gate itself, like many other structures, experienced changes during British rule, with demolitions and subsequent rebuilds altering its physical form.
Cultural Hub and Literary Center
Taxali Gate transcended its architectural significance to become a vibrant cultural hub. The area inside the gate flourished with a unique blend of life, businesses, trades, and a distinct cultural identity. In its heyday, Taxali Gate was the heart of literature, art, and music, hosting renowned poets.
Residences of Popular Poets
The gate witnessed the presence of prominent personalities, including nobles and socialites. Havelis and heritage homes adorned the landscape, with notable residents such as Mian Yousaf Salah ud Din.
Commercial and Entertainment Centers
Taxali Gate was not only a centre for cultural and intellectual pursuits but also home to vibrant marketplaces. The Sheikhupuri Bazaar, known for its shoe market, and the iconic Pakistan Talkies and Aziz Theatre, the first cinema and theatre in Pakistan, added commercial and entertainment dimensions to the area.
Religious Harmony and Institutions
In a remarkable display of religious harmony, Taxali Gate housed the oldest Presbyterian Church, a gurdwara, and a mosque within close proximity. This coexistence certainly reflected the diverse and inclusive nature of the community that resided in and around Taxali Gate.
Culinary Delights
Chowk Heera Mandi, associated with the gate, dispels the misconception that Taxali Gate is solely a red-light area. It is a haven for Lahori food lovers, boasting renowned eateries like Taj Mehal, offering delicacies such as Phajja Paye and Halwa Puri.
Musical Legacy
The area known as Lahnga Mandi was once a thriving musical instrument market with rows of musicians, music bands, and players. However, a decline in musical activities led to a fate shared by these shops.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Taxali Gate, Lahore:
What is Taxali Gate in Lahore known for?
Taxali Gate is a historic gate in Lahore known for its rich cultural heritage, architectural significance, and historical associations dating back to the Mughal era.
Are there any notable landmarks near Taxali Gate?
Yes, several significant landmarks surround Taxali Gate, including Sheikhupura Bazaar, Pakistan Talkies, Aziz Theatre, Presbyterian Church, Havelis, and more.
Is Taxali Gate associated with any red-light district?
Historically, Taxali Gate was close to Heera Mandi, a defunct red-light district. The area has historical ties to Mughal Emperors and their consorts.
What role does Taxali Gate play in local administration?
Taxali Gate serves as Union Council 30 (UC 30) in Tehsil Ravi of Lahore City District.
Can visitors explore specialist markets near Taxali Gate?
Absolutely. Sheikhupura Bazaar, renowned for its shoe market, and specialist sweet stores like Taj Mahal and Shahabuddin Halwai offer unique experiences.
What are some popular places near Taxali Gate for tourists?
Tourist attractions in the vicinity include Badshahi Mosque, Fort Road, Faqir Khana Museum, Lahore Fort, Sheesh Mahal, Data Darbar, and Bhatti Chowk East.
Is there a historical significance to the Havelis near Taxali Gate?
Yes, the Havelis and heritage homes around Taxali Gate, such as Haveli Dhiyan Singh and Haveli of Khushal Singh, showcase intricate architecture and historical charm.
Can visitors expect a cultural experience near Taxali Gate?
Definitely. The area offers a blend of historic marketplaces, entertainment venues, literary residences, and spiritual sites, providing a diverse cultural experience.
In summary, Taxali Gate in Lahore is a fascinating symbol of the city’s history and diverse culture. It is one of the 13 gates of Lahore. Its roots in the Mughal era, architectural wonders, and connections to literary figures make it a noteworthy site. Surrounding landmarks like Sheikhupura Bazaar and Havelis enhance its historical importance.
Exploring this area allows visitors to immerse themselves in Lahore’s traditions, arts, and spirituality. Taxali Gate isn’t just a structure; it serves as a doorway to the city’s past, encouraging everyone to explore and appreciate Lahore’s cultural richness.
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