Vellore Fort facts for kids

Vellore Fort is a huge fort built in the 1500s. It stands right in the middle of Vellore city in Tamil Nadu, India. Kings from the Vijayanagara Empire built this strong fort. It was once the main base for the Aravidu family of the Vijayanagara Empire. The fort is famous for its tall walls and a very wide moat (a deep ditch filled with water).

History of Vellore Fort

This amazing fort has been owned by many different rulers over time. First, it belonged to the Vijayanagara kings. Then, it was taken over by the Bijapur sultans. After them, the Marathas ruled it, followed by the Carnatic Nawabs. Finally, the British took control and kept the fort until India became independent. Today, the Indian government takes care of the fort through its Archaeological Department.

Famous Prisoners and Rebellions

During the time of British rule, some very important people were kept as prisoners inside Vellore Fort. These included the family of Tipu Sultan, a famous ruler. Also, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, who was the last king of Sri Lanka, was held here.

Vellore Fort was also the site of a big event in Indian history. In 1806, the first major rebellion against British rule by soldiers happened right here. The fort also saw a sad event: a massacre of the Vijayanagara royal family.

What's Inside the Fort?

Vellore Fort is special because it holds buildings from different religions. Inside its walls, you can find a Hindu temple, a Christian church, and a Muslim mosque.

Jalakanteswarar Temple

The most famous building inside the fort is the Jalakanteswarar Temple. This Hindu temple is well-known for its beautiful and detailed carvings. These carvings show amazing artistry from the past.

Other Buildings

Besides the temple, there is also St. John's Church. It is a Christian church that was built during the British period. A Muslim mosque also stands within the fort, showing the mix of cultures that have been part of the fort's long history.

Images for kids

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  Stone carving of the ceiling with intricate details

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  European Burying-Ground at Vellore (MacLeod, p.142, 1871)

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  Tomb of Tippoo family, Vellore (MacLeod, p.141, 1871)

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  Vellore Fort and Jalakandeswarar temple Panorama

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  Sri Jalagandeeswarar Temple, Feb 2012

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  Swords

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  Vellore Fort in 1913

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  Vellore Fort moat

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  View of moat at Vellore Fort

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  View from the Vellore Fort

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  Vellore Fort, built by Vijayanagara kings