With a rich history and varied geography, Delhi has lived through the changing times of many civilizations. Delhi has 5,000 years of history, and its origins are rooted in the advanced urban culture of the Indus Valley Civilization. Evidence from numerous archaeological sites suggests that this region was a very early settlement that lent Delhi its long-time historical consciousness. The Mughal era was a heyday for Delhi, which developed into a bustling center of culture, art, and architecture. You can still see Mughal grandeur in magnificent buildings like the Red Fort and Jama Masjid, representing Delhi's brilliant past. The British legacy formed by the Empire included Delhi. Early in the twentieth century, New Delhi—with its wide avenues and stately colonial buildings such as India Gate and Rashtrapati Bhavan—was a mixture of English and Indian architectural styles. What makes Delhi unique among cities is its geography and its history. The Yamuna River, sacred to Hindus and located in India's north-central plain, is the city's lifeblood. An extension of the Aravalli Range, the Delhi Ridge gives the city fresh air and relief from its ever-present urban sprawl. Modern Delhi has indeed spread outward until many previous villages are now simply one large metropolitan area. Delhi's twisted, rich history and diverse geography create an interesting mix of stories and cultures. It's a never-ending city full of places to discover, just waiting for us to explore.
