FORT

Chitral Fort was built in the 14th century and then renovated by the Mehtars (sovereigns) and British officers in the 18th and 20th centuries. It was used as a fortified residence for the princely family (the Chitral district ceased to be a princely state in 1969, during which time it was totally absorbed by Pakistan), and as a seat of power. It still belongs to the princely family today but is generally open to the public. Some parts are still very well preserved and used, such as the huge dining room where the portraits of all the princes of Chitral are displayed, others are falling into ruins. In 1895, the fort was at the centre of a war episode. Chitral had been under British rule for six years. Some members of a Chitral tribe do not accept this power and bring down the incumbent leader in a coup that costs him his life. The fort was under siege for 47 days, until it was liberated by British troops who had come to reinforce it. The fort overlooks the Kunar River and overlooks the Tirich Mir.