Vijayanagara temple complex

Timeline

1. 1336–1400Virupaksha Temple · KarnatakaAfter the empire established its capital, the Virupaksha Temple received sustained royal patronage and expansion, becoming the religious center of the capital. Early structures retained foundations of the 7th-century Pallava tradition, with gopurams (tower gateways) and colonnades added during the imperial period.
2. 1422–1446Hampi · KarnatakaDuring the reign of Deva Raya II, multiple temples were repaired and newly built, with carved corridors and murals added to buildings such as the Hazara Rama Temple. Between 1431 and 1440, the imperial court and temple artisans collaborated, advancing architectural decorative arts to maturity.
3. 1509–1529Vittala Temple · KarnatakaUnder Krishnadevaraya the Vittala Temple was completed, renowned for its musical stone pillars and stone chariot shrine, representing the highest peak of Vijayanagara temple architecture. The complex is grand in scale, reflecting the empire's wealth and craftsmanship at its height.