Hampi : Discover the Splendours of Vijayanagar

Contents: Introduction. 1. A city time forgot: The landscape and panorama of Hampi today. 2. A Kingdom by the Tungabhadra: History of the foundation of the Vijayanagar Empire. 3. From zenith to oblivion: History of the greatest years of the Vijayanagar Empire. 4. Krishnadeva Raya: Profile of the greatest monarch of Vijayanagar. 5. Living in Vijayanagar: Recreating the life of the people. 6. Pilgrims by a sacred river: The art and architecture of the temples of Hampi. 7. A quiet pause at Vitthala: Experience the ambience at a unique temple. 8. An imperial citadel: The majestic architecture of the Royal Enclosure. Chronology. Further reading. Index.

Hampi is one of the greatest heritage sites in India. It has not merely temples or palaces but the remains of a complete medieval city-the magnificent Vijayanagar. There is an exquisite collection of monuments that lie scattered across a picturesque landscape.

Founded in the 14th century, the kingdom of Vijayanagar thrived for three hundred years. It was one of the greatest cities of the medieval world, legendary not just for its wealth and military prowess but also for its art, architecture, crafts and culture. Some of the finest architecture and sculpture can be seen at Hampi. It is one of the World Heritage Sites of the UNESCO.

Once traders and adventurers across the globe came to Vijayanagar, but in the 16th century the city was sacked by invaders, abandoned by its people, and it never rose again. Today as travellers and pilgrims wander through its beautiful palaces and temples, it seems that the world has returned to Hampi once again.