Lahore, considered the cultural hub of Pakistan, is home to a heritage that dates back centuries, linking a rich past with the present. Historic structures such as the Lahore Fort, Wazir Khan Mosque, and the Shahi Hammam stand as enduring symbols of the opulence synonymous with the Mughal Empire, which left behind an enchanting legacy of intricate art and architecture. From the delicate frescoes adorning majestic structures to finely carved lattice screens (jaalis) and elegant overhanging balconies (jharokas), these aesthetic elements conjure vivid images of romance, spirituality, and imperial grandeur.
Years of neglect led to the systematic decay of these majestic symbols. Aga Khan Cultural Service – Pakistan (AKCS-P), in partnership with the Walled City of Lahore Authority (WCLA), has been undertaking efforts to restore these landmarks through traditional techniques and international best practices.
Reviving sites composed of diverse materials and built using a range of architectural and artistic techniques has been a mammoth task, led by a versatile team of experts, including fine artists, architects, and craftspeople. Traditional techniques such as fresco, filigree, and stucco work have not only been revived but are also being preserved in the process.
Key stakeholders at the helm of safeguarding Lahore’s historic sites recently convened to review efforts and discuss strategies to revive the city’s structures. They included AKCS-P Chairman Akbar Ali Pesnani, CEO Tausif Khawaja, AKCS-P Board members, and WCLA Director General Najmus Saqib.
Discussions focused on the progress, opportunities, and challenges related to joint conservation efforts at key heritage sites, including the Lahore Fort, Wazir Khan Mosque, and Akbari Mandi. Critical reflections were shared on strategies to further strengthen conservation practices while promoting sustainable development and community engagement in the Walled City.
A key topic of discussion was the conservation of the Wazir Khan Mosque. Work on the mosque has involved the structural consolidation of domes, walls, and foundations, as well as the restoration of floors, lime plaster, rooftops, and parapets. Beyond the mosque itself, conservation efforts have extended to the surrounding neighbourhood. The bustling yet deteriorated area has been rehabilitated, historic houses along the southern side of Chowk Wazir Khan have been restored, and smaller monuments and façades within the square have been conserved.
Planned interventions include the conservation of the north-west and south-west minarets, restoration of frescoes in the prayer chamber, and redevelopment of the southern neighbourhood, including façade improvements of selected properties such as the WCLA office. This roadmap aims to transform the mosque and Chowk Wazir Khan into a vibrant tourist hub and community space.
Projects funded by the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) at the Lahore Fort have supported the revival of some of the Fort’s most treasured sites, including the Sheesh Mahal and the Picture Wall. Work at the Sheesh Mahal is ongoing, with site assessments and emergency stabilisation already completed. Following laboratory testing, suitable conservation materials were identified, and skilled labour has been trained in traditional stucco techniques, which are now being applied to restore the palace of mirrors to its former glory.
Mimicking the mirror pieces originally used in the Sheesh Mahal was no small feat and required a major undertaking, including the reopening of a closed industrial unit in a remote part of Sindh. The factory in Shikarpur was revived to produce custom-made convex mirrors. Over time, the once-glimmering palace developed structural voids and cracks in its walls and ceilings. To address these, grouting is being applied, a process in which a fluid material is injected to fill gaps, strengthen the structure, and prevent water infiltration.
At the Picture Wall, renowned as one of the world’s largest murals, conservation work is nearing completion. Efforts have included tracing and reconstructing panel impressions, brick imitation, and the careful retracing and repainting of frescoes across its countless panels to match the original designs.
The meeting concluded with a commitment by WCLA and AKCS-P to further strengthen their partnership and expand collaboration to additional projects and cities. Participants also discussed the potential for joint initiatives involving WCLA, the Department of Archaeology, and AKCS-P to enhance heritage conservation efforts across Pakistan.