Jaipur was founded in 1727 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II as the new capital of Amber. He followed principles of Indian architecture and urban planning in its design. Jaipur is laid out in a grid pattern divided into nine blocks based on the concept of a mandala. The central streets and intersections form the structure of the city. Key reasons for founding Jaipur were defense needs, availability of resources, and allowing Amber to expand. The city's architecture and public spaces still reflect its original planned design.