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UNESCO has added 12 Maratha forts to its World Heritage List, recognising their role in shaping India's military architecture and the legacy of Shivaji Maharaj.
Raigad Fort served as Shivaji’s capital and coronation site, showcasing Maratha power, hilltop planning and historic significance in the Sahyadris.
UNESCO recognises Rajgad for its long-standing use by Shivaji as a capital and its evolved fortification system across four spurs of a hill.
Torna was Shivaji’s first conquest at age 16. Its selection honours the symbolic start of the Maratha Empire and massive fortified structures.
Built on a rocky island, Sindhudurg was chosen for its naval defence design and Maratha maritime strategy in safeguarding the Konkan coast.
Lohagad is noted for its architectural integration with the Sahyadris and control over ancient trade routes. Its 'Scorpion tail' layout is iconic.
Rajmachi Fort lies between Mumbai and Pune and was built to guard the Bor Ghat pass, a key route for trade and military movement.
Khanderi’s strategic location near Mumbai earned it the UNESCO tag for showcasing Maratha naval strength and watchtower-based coastal defence.
Images: https://tripxl.com/
The only fort where Marathas defeated Mughals in direct battle, Salher was added for its military significance and high-altitude architecture.
UNESCO honoured Shivneri as the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj. Its layout reflects defensive design suited for royal upbringing and security.
Pratapgad is known for its strategic hilltop design and was the site of Shivaji’s pivotal battle against Afzal Khan in the dense forests of Satara.
Famous for its location in the sea, Kolaba Fort was recognised for showcasing Maratha coastal control and its rare freshwater source within the fort.
Gingee, far from Maharashtra, was added for its tri-fort hill system and Shivaji's symbolic southern conquest, showing the Maratha reach.
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