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Medak town is situated at a distance of
96-km from Hyderabad
. The most important places of interest in the town are the
Fort and the
Church. The Medak fort was
originally called "Methuku Durgam", which derived its name from
the Telugu word "Methuku" meaning a cooked rice grain, rice
being the largely cultivated crop in this region.
The Foundation And Modifications
This
architectural marvel was originally built in the 12th century A.D in the
typical Hindu style during the reign of the Kakatiyas, the later additions
and modifications carried out by the Qutub Shahis exhibit Muslim
architecture. The fort is historically important being on a vantage point,
and it formed part of an excellent war strategy and witnessed several
battles in the Deccan spanning five centuries.
The fort has wide ramparts with several natural bastions carved out of
the boulders and rocks on the hillock. Climbing a few steps takes you to
the top of the hill, from where you can have a breathtaking view of the
Medak town with the Pasupu Yeru (yellow stream in Telugu) meandering its
way into the region is a treat to the eyes. The fort has three significant
entrances - the 'Prathama Dwaaram' or first entrance, 'Simha Dwaaram' or
Lion's entrance that has two snarling lions sculpted on a plaque fitted at
the top of the entrance and the 'Gaja Dwaaram' or the elephant's entrance
showing two elephants involved in a game on both sides of the entrance.
Attractions Within The Fort
The main attractions are the brass gun present in the fort, which is 10
feet long and it was cast at Rotterdam for the Dutch in AD1620. The
Mubarak Mahal in the fort has on one of its gateways, the carving of
double-headed eagle holding elephants in its teeth and talons.
Although in ruins, the Medak fort still retains its age-old charm,
looking strong and majestic. Today, it stands as a valuable heritage of
Andhra Pradesh.
Air: Nearest airport is at Hyderabad, at a distance of 100-km.
Road: State buses are available from
Hyderabad ,
Sangareddy, Nizamabad,
Karimnagar,
Warangal and Siddipet.
Rail: The nearest railway station is at Kamareddy, at a distance
of 60-km.
Accommodation is available at the hotels in Medak.