Background

No archeological remains in Lahore date that far back but from the number of coins of the Menander dynasty of Indo-Bactrian Kings discovered near Ichra, it would appear that Lahore was a place of importance some time between 4 BC and 2BC.

Mehmood Ghaznavi conquered Lahore in 1201 AD. And made it the capital of his Ghaznavi Empire. The city became the hub of social, cultural and educational activities, reaching its zenith during the Mughal era. This was the time when magnificent forts, gardens, tombs, Mosques and pavilions were built adding to the beauty and grandeur of the city.

Emperor Akbar, considered to be the greatest Mughal King, made Lahore the seat of his kingdom expanding, fortifying and embellishing the grand Shahi Qila. Other Mughal Kings, who mainly ruled from Delhi, also had a special place in their hearts for Lahore-Shaha Jehan gave it the fabled Shalimar Gardents, Aurangzab gifted the beautiful landmark of Shahi Masjid. Jehangir also built an impressive mausoleum for himself across the river Ravi. The pioneer of Sikh rule in Punjab, Maharaga Ranjit Singh, ruled from Lahore and is also buried here in a small but remarkable somadhi just outside the Fort.

During the British Raj, Many majestic public buildings like the Lahore High Court, Government College, Museum, General Post Office and sprawling Lawrence Garden enriched its beauty and diversity yet further. The large number of government, public and commercial buildings from the era gracefully combine a mélange of architectural styles; Mughal, Gothic, Victorian and Colonial.

After independence, the Minar-e-Pakistn, WAPDA House and Alhamra are just some of the monuments and building added to the city during various regimes. Large recreational parks like the Race Course Park and Gulshan-e-Iqbal were developed upon Japanese models. In Lahore, the clock of history continues to tick, and every day a new chapter is added.