PURANI HAVELI

Also known as Haveli Khadeem or Masarrat Mahal Palace, this large U-shaped building was built in the 16th century to house the Sultan's Prime Minister. It was bought by Ali Khan Nizzam II in the 18th century for his son Sikander Jah. He undertook extensions and renovations that enhanced the European style of the building. Upon the death of his father, Sikander Jah hurried to move. The palace was then named Purani Haveli which means "old house". The sixth Nizam of Hyderabad made it his principal residence in the 19th century. It was to remain so until Independence in 1947.

The Purani Haveli now houses a school and above all the Nizam Museum, which presents a succession of objects belonging to the last Nizam of Hyderabad, Ali Khan Nizam. The central building, in one piece, houses the royal palace, including an impressive darbar hall. The two-story wings form a U shape with the central building. They house a succession of salons and apartments arranged around inner courtyards. In some of the rooms of the complex, the colored tiles are still visible. One of the main curiosities of the house is the wardrobe. It is said to be the largest in the world, spread over two floors connected by a wooden crank elevator. The closet could contain 750 royal outfits, which allowed the Nizam to wear the same outfit only once every 2 years!