Royal Palace
Hampi, India
- Capture the panoramic views of the Royal Enclosure from different vantage points
- Explore the Mahanavami Dibba and imagine the grand ceremonies held there
- Marvel at the Indo-Islamic architecture of the Queen's Bath
- Take a break at the Lotus Mahal and appreciate its beauty
- Visit the Hazara Rama Temple and admire the intricate carvings
Known for:
Description:
The Royal Enclosure in Hampi, India, is a sprawling complex of palaces, temples, and other structures that once served as the heart of the Vijayanagara Empire. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a glimpse into the grandeur and opulence of the Vijayanagara dynasty. Explore the majestic Mahanavami Dibba, the stepped platform used for royal ceremonies, and marvel at the intricate carvings of the Hazara Rama Temple. The Queen's Bath, with its stunning Indo-Islamic architecture, and the Lotus Mahal, a beautiful example of secular Vijayanagara architecture, are not to be missed.
History:
The Royal Enclosure was built primarily during the 14th-16th centuries CE under the reign of the Vijayanagara emperors. It served as the administrative and residential center for the rulers. The city's strategic location on the banks of the Tungabhadra River and its natural defenses made it an ideal capital for the empire. After the Vijayanagara Empire fell to invading Deccan Sultanates in the 16th century, the Royal Enclosure and much of Hampi were plundered and left in ruins. Today, it stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural richness of the Vijayanagara era.