Il patrimonio architettonico di Shahjahanabad: un destino incerto per le haveli della città vecchia di Delhi tra abbandono, heritage hotels e centri culturali

The paper presents an overview of the main features and transformations that the architectural heritage of Shahjahanabad, former capital of the Mughal Empire, in Delhi. After almost four hundred years, many aspects and elements of the glorious city are still recognizable, such as historic buildings, traditional practices, customs and social dynamics. However, a general neglect of Shahjahanabad’s architectural heritage is threatening to make the historic capital’s identity features vanish once and for all. In particular, hundreds of havelis, palaces that were once the residences of the Mughal aristocracy, are in a severe state of neglect, decay, and dilapidation. Some recent interventions have brought attention back to these historic buildings that are tangible and intangible evidence of a glorious past. They represent a unique community and resilient way of life within an urban landscape where the ties and sense of belonging to the place are still strong despite the great difficulties faced daily by local communities. Conservation and enhancement of architectural heritage projects are urgently needed to save the magnificent buildings, raise awareness among residents, improve their quality of life and revitalize the vibrant heritage of Shahjahanabad.