Hampi: Echoes of a Glorious Past - A UNESCO Treasure
India Travel Pundits recommends
Hampi - World Heritage Site by UNESCO
Located in an impressive rocky landscape along the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi was the capital of the powerful Vijayanagara Empire. Founded by Harihara and Bukka in 1336, it fell into the hands of the Muslim rulers of the Deccan in 1565, and the city was sacked for a period of six months before being abandoned. The once proud city of victory is now a city of desolation. However, the ruins of these historic monuments have withstood the ravages of man and time and still evoke memories of the grandeur of a bygone era. Classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, this historic city is also the "largest open-air museum in the world" and covers an area of almost 29 square kilometers.
The Vijayanagara Empire, at its peak, was very prosperous. It was said that "The city is such that the pupil of the eye has never seen a place like it, and the ear of intelligence has never been informed that there was anything like it in the world." It had opulent palaces, marvelous temples, enormous fortifications, baths, markets, aqueducts, pavilions, stables for royal elephants, and elegantly carved pillars. It was a city whose merchants traded in diamonds, pearls, horses, fine silks, and brocades.
Most of the important structures and ruins are located in two zones, which are often called the Royal Center and the Sacred Center. The Royal Center, in the southwest part of the site, contains structures that appear to have been palaces, baths, pavilions, royal stables, and temples for ceremonial use. The Sacred Center extends around the Virupaksha Temple and the Hampi Bazaar area and is located along the banks of the sacred Tungabhadra River.
The ruins of Hampi are extensive and fascinating enough to capture your attention for several days. The best way to experience this UNESCO World Heritage Site is to take a leisurely stroll through the eloquent ruins. If you have limited time, one or two days will be enough to see all the important structures. However, lovers of photography, archeology, and yoga should plan to stay a little longer.
