They represent the military genius of the Maratha Empire (17th–19th centuries), particularly under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and later Peshwas.
Key features: 11 forts in Maharashtra and 1 (Gingee Fort) in Tamil Nadu.
Strategically distributed across diverse landscapes: Sahyadri Mountains, Konkan Coast, Deccan Plateau, and Eastern Ghats.
Types: hill forts (including Raigad, Rajgad, Salher, Shivneri), coastal and island forts (Vijaydurg, Sindhudurg, Suvarnadurg), hill-forest fort (Pratapgad), and hill-plateau fort (Panhala).
These forts formed an integrated defense system that combined guerrilla tactics, terrain advantages, and maritime control.
They protected trade, controlled territory, and played a crucial role in the rise of the Marathas as a major power in India.
The entire site (area approx. 1,578 ha + buffer zone) demonstrates how the Marathas seamlessly integrated landscape, architecture, and military strategy.
It is a unique example of cultural heritage (criteria iv and vi).
In short: an impressive tribute to Maratha military innovation and Indian fortification art.
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