Hampi is an ancient city that, from 1336 to 1565, was the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire . It is located in the valley of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka state, and was declared a World Heritage Site in 1986. And it is not surprising since in Hampi is very rich architectural and cultural visit.
In the downtown there are currently some 350 temples, many forts, countless pieces of religious art (sculptures, paintings), stables, palaces, gardens and markets. It's all part of the great treasure houses Hampi, one of the favorite destinations of India.
The city can be divided into two schools: first, the Sacred Center, home to the temples of Vitthala, Virupaksha, and Achyuta Krishna Raya, and the statue of Narasimha, among other outstanding sights on the other, the Royal Centre, also installation site of numerous temples, stables, barracks, palaces, etc.
The final decline of Vijayanagara Empire came in 1565 when its power was such that the Deccan sultans teamed up to defeat their leader in the battle of Talikota . Of course the first to be taken was the capital, and once occupied never returned to their former glory.
At present, it is in ruins, but the course is a unique experience. Walking through these vast monuments can still relive the majesty of the greatest empire in India after the fall of the Mongols. An area of 26 square kilometers is home to the most impressive religious and administrative buildings, as well as powerful defensive structure that protected the city.
The modern city closest to Hampi is Hospet , the perfect place to stay and from there go to the former imperial capital and explore its infinite paths of history.