Bhavani A TO Z INDIA ● JANUARY 2023 ● PAGE 10 A village of Ruins: Hampi, located in Karnataka It took southern India to new heights. Merchants of this city only traded in diamond, gold, exquisite jewellery and prestigious artifacts. It became a trade hub across world. It was once believed to be more prosperous and powerful than Rome, Lisbon. In 1565, coalition of Muslim Sultanates defeated Vijayanagara Empire and conquered it’s capital. Hence they started destruction and since then Hampi remains in ruins. How technologically rich it was can been seen on the pillars who are carved by such intricacy. Virupkasha Temple: Dedicated to lord Virupkasha an incarnation of lord shiva. This temple is believed to be the oldest functional temple since 7th century. Immense grandeur and popular among architecture buffs for it’s structure, Virupkasha temple is one of the most sacred temples in Karnataka.