The courtyard's enigma
Divankhana
The Divankhana is the most elegant and enigmatic structure of the complex: an octagonal rotunda-pavilion surrounded by a slender arcade.
The courtyard's enigma
The Divankhana is the most elegant and enigmatic structure of the complex: an octagonal rotunda-pavilion surrounded by a slender arcade.
The purpose of the Divankhana is still debated — and that is part of its charm.
Divankhana
The Divankhana dates to the late 15th century. It is an octagonal pavilion raised at the centre of a small courtyard and surrounded by an arcaded gallery with slender columns.
Its portal and dome are decorated with the finest stone carving — plant ornament and Arabic inscriptions.
About the building
When the pavilion was built.
An octagonal pavilion in an arcade.
Ornament and inscriptions in stone.
Its purpose is still debated.
Divankhana
By one account, justice was administered and state audiences held here — hence the name 'divan-khana'. By another, it was a memorial structure.
There is no firm answer, but the enigma is exactly what makes the Divankhana one of the most captivating corners of the palace.
The purpose of the Divankhana is interpreted differently across sources; the main versions are given.