Hampi, India
Ancient Capital of the Vijayanagara Kingdom
Chandramauleshwar Temple on the banks of the Tungabhadra River, Hampi.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, India, is one of the world’s most stunning archaeological sites with its collection of over 500 monuments spread over 26 square kilometers of spectacular natural scenery. However, the site faces threats from a number of sources including unplanned development, inadequate protection and seasonal flooding. GHF is focusing its efforts on the conservation of the 15th century Chandramauleshwar temple, located in the central zone of the site, in partnership with the State of Karnataka, Hampi Foundation and Cornell University. Of significance is the fact that the work on this temple is the first pilot project in Karnataka for the restoration of a State Protected Monument in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hampi, and is further a pioneering initiative of public-private partnership by the Hampi Foundation and the Government of Karnataka. By establishing best practices in this project, it can serve as an exemplar for future preservation projects within the site and across the region.
Temples from this ruined city are known for their large size and wealth of sculptures depicting subjects from the India epics the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Hampi complex is famous for the Vithala Temple Complex, Ugra Narasimha. The highlight of the ruins is the Vitthala Temple, whose outer pillars, known as the Musical Pillars, reverberate when tapped. The stone chariot in front of the temple is one of many important monumental sculptures.
