Gwalior was under the control of Muslim rulers from the twelfth century. This continued till the end of the fourteenth century. Tomar kings were the first Jagirdars who established their control over Gwalior.
Urvahi Gate was renovated during the reign of Iltutmish but many grand temples were built during the reign of Tomars and especially during the reign of Man Singh Tomar, Man Singh Palace, Gujri Mahal, Hathi Pol etc. were built which are still milestones in terms of art and architecture.
It was during his rule that the giant statues of Jain Tirthankaras came into existence by cutting rocks. After the death of Man Singh his son ascended the throne but he lost the battle to Ibrahim Lodhi and become a Feudator and remain loyal to Ibrahim Lodhi. In 1527 Mughal emperor Babar conquered it and established his control which continued till 1731.
During the reign of Emperor Aurangzeb his governor Motamid Khan of Gwalior built this Shahi Jama Masjid which is easily accessible from the Alamgir Gate.
This splendid mosque is built on a raised platform. The main entrance in the East can be accessed through a flight of stone steps. It has two circular minarates adorned with domes which are raised on stone arches. Each Minaret has six stages separated by mouldings. At the top of the fourth and sixth stage a circular Chajja with railing is built. These minarates have the spiral staircase. The main entrance is an evan and either side is Mehrab and two rectangular panels. Entablature runs throughout the gate and the centre is decorated with a domed canopy which is erected on stone arches. Above the entrance and below the canopy persian inscription is affixed in the form of a marble tablet. Two cylindrical minarates are either side of the entrance. Some floral relief work is visible. The main prayer hall can be accessed through three arched ways and the central one is decorated with four thin cylindrical minarates, arches and calligraphy work. Above the roof of the prayer hall it has three domes. At the centre of the courtyard there’s an ablution water tank. The complete structure is very attractive and has light brown stone cladding. It’s one of the most popular mosques and a tourist attraction too.