Question 1

What is Sultanate architecture style?

Accepted Answer

Characterized by the adaptation of pre-existing Indian architectural techniques with Islamic design principles, featuring arches, domes, and the use of local materials.

Question 2

Where is Sultanate architecture style architecture found?

Accepted Answer

Sultanate architecture style architecture is primarily found in Delhi, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Bengal, North India. There are 2 heritage sites documented with this architectural style.

Question 3

When was Sultanate architecture style architecture used?

Accepted Answer

Sultanate architecture style architecture was used during 12th-16th century CE. It is associated with the Delhi Sultanate, Khilji Dynasty, Tughlaq Dynasty, Lodi Dynasty, Malwa Sultanate dynasty/period.

Question 4

What materials are used in Sultanate architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

Sultanate architecture style architecture typically uses Red Sandstone, Grey Sandstone, Lime Mortar, Stone, Brick, Lime mortar. These materials are characteristic of this architectural style and reflect the construction techniques of the period.

Question 5

Which heritage sites use Sultanate architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

There are 2 heritage sites documented with Sultanate architecture style architecture.  You can explore these sites on the Inheritage Foundation website.

Title	Sultanate architecture style 4.5/5(Based on 2 heritage sites) Rare 4.5/5(Based on 2 heritage sites)
Description	Characterized by the adaptation of pre-existing Indian architectural techniques with Islamic design principles, featuring arches, domes, and the use of local materials.
Also Known As	Indo-Islamic palatial sloping walls for stability. Rajput Military Architecture Sultanate Architecture Patola-inspired Geometric Patterns (arguably) Torana Gateways (Hindu tradition) Jharokha Balconies (Hindu tradition) Chhatris (Hindu tradition) Corbelled Arch Construction (prevalent in Indic styles) Decorative Arch Motifs (influenced by Islamic architecture but adapted) Massive Sloping Walls (characteristic of Rajput forts) military. Blends Islamic forms with pre-existing Indian elements. Islamic Architecture Mughal Architecture Pashtun Influence Local Bihari Vernacular Architecture Traces of earlier Hindu Buddhist temple architecture (repurposed elements)
Tags	Islamic Indian Arch Dome Minaret Fortification Syncretic Military
Style ID	`INHF-STY-8351186003-01:28:21:24:10:21:SAS`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/sultanate-architecture-style
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/sultanate-architecture-style`
Total Sites	2
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 19, 2025
Last Updated	November 29, 2025

Time Periods	12th-16th century CE
Dynasties	Delhi Sultanate Khilji Dynasty Tughlaq Dynasty Lodi Dynasty Malwa Sultanate

Primary Materials	Red Sandstone Grey Sandstone Lime Mortar Stone Brick Lime mortar
Architectural Features	Arches Domes Minarets Courtyards Calligraphy Geometric Patterns Repurposed materials

Title	Type	Notes
Indian Architecture (Islamic Period)	Book	Details on Sultanate architectural features.
The Architecture of the Indian Sultanates	Book	Details the architectural innovations of the Sultanate period.

Site Name	Status	Confidence
Hindola Mahal Mandu	Secondary	100%
Munger Fort Munger	Secondary	100%

Sultanate architecture style

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