Vijay Nagar empire was in?
VerifiedAnswer: Hampi
Explanation:
The Vijayanagara Empire was a magnificent South Indian empire that flourished from the 14th to 17th centuries, and its capital was located at Hampi. This ancient city, situated in present-day Karnataka, served as the political, economic, and cultural center of one of India's most powerful medieval empires.
Hampi was strategically positioned on the southern banks of the Tungabhadra River in the Deccan Plateau. The founders of the Vijayanagara Empire, Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, established their capital here in 1336 CE. The location was chosen wisely as it provided natural defenses with rocky terrain and river boundaries, making it difficult for enemies to attack.
At its peak during the 15th and 16th centuries, Hampi was one of the largest and wealthiest cities in the world. The city covered an area of over 650 square kilometers and had a population of around 500,000 people. Foreign travelers like Domingo Paes and Abdur Razzaq described Hampi as a city that rivaled Rome in grandeur and prosperity.
The architectural marvels of Hampi reflect the empire's glory. The city housed magnificent temples, royal complexes, market streets, and administrative buildings. Some notable structures include the Virupaksha Temple, Vittala Temple with its famous stone chariot, Lotus Mahal, and the Elephant Stables. These monuments showcase the distinctive Vijayanagara architectural style that blended Dravidian, Islamic, and Indo-Islamic elements.
The empire's administration was highly organized, with Hampi serving as the nerve center. The city was divided into different quarters including the royal center, sacred center, and urban core. Each area had specific functions - the royal center housed palaces and administrative buildings, the sacred center contained temples and religious structures, while the urban core had markets, residential areas, and craft workshops.
Unfortunately, Hampi's golden era came to an end in 1565 CE following the Battle of Talikota (also known as the Battle of Bannihatti). The combined forces of Deccan Sultanates defeated the Vijayanagara army, leading to the sack and destruction of Hampi. The once-glorious capital was abandoned and gradually fell into ruins.
Today, Hampi stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its outstanding universal value and historical significance. The ruins spread across the landscape tell the story of a once-mighty empire that played a crucial role in preserving Hindu culture and traditions in South India during medieval times. Archaeological excavations continue to reveal new aspects of life in this remarkable ancient city, making it an invaluable source for understanding India's rich historical heritage.
