Shaniwar Wada was the palace of the Peshwas since the 18th century C.E once the capital of Maratha empire shifted from Satara to Pune. The construction of this structure started on a Saturday hence the name “Shaniwar Wada” was given to it. Originally constructed as a residence for the Peshwas, the monument spread over 625 acres, depicts influence of Mughal designs in its architecture. It is a heavily fortified building complex with nine bastions and five gateways. The main entrance of the monument is called Delhi Darwaza, because it faces the north and due to Bajirao’s ambitions of conquering Delhi. The elaborate foundations of the original palace along with the Nagarkhana showcasing the wooden pillars and lattice work add up to the beauty of the mansion. Shaniwar Wada has witnessed pivotal moments in the history of Pune, which has been the cultural capital of Maharashtra ever since.