Hampi

Hampi : is a village in northern Karnataka state, India. Hampi is located within the ruins of Vijayanagara, the former capital of theVijayanagara empire. Possibly predating the city of Vijayanagara, this village continues to be an important religious centre, housing theVirupaksha Temple. The village of Hampi contains several other monuments belonging to the old city. It extends into some of the old ceremonial streets of Vijayanagara. As the village is at the original centre of Vijayanagara, it is sometimes confused with this ruined city. The Vijayanagara ruins are listed as the Group of Monuments at Hampi as a UNESCO WORLD.

History

A Hindu templenaga decoration at Hampi.

Hampi is identified with the historical Kishkindha, theVanara(monkey) kingdom which finds mention in theRamayana. The first historical settlements in Hampi date back to 1 CE

Hampi formed one of the cores of the capital of the Vijayanagara empire from 1336 to 1565. It was destroyed by Muslim sultans. Hampi was chosen because of its strategic location, bounded by the torrential Tungabhadra river on one side and surrounded by defensible hills on the other three sides.

The site is of great importance in terms of architecture and historical significance. The demography is abundant with large stones which have been utilized to make larger than life statues of Hindu deities. One can see a structure of historic importance every quarter of a mile.

The city is now in ruins due to invading Islamic aggressions who treat idol worship as blasphemy. Many statues have been destroyed or damaged and successive governments have not been able to keep the place free from treasure seekers who cause further damage.

Recently the Archaeological Survey of India has been conducting continuous excavations in the area to discover more artifacts and temples.