Initially built in the 9th century, the Kavaledurga Fort is a historical monument that is located about 18 km from Thirthahalli in the Shimoga district of the state of Karnataka.
History of Kavaledurga Fort
Renovated in the 14th century by Cheluvarangappa, the Kavaledurga Fort was then called Bhuvanagiri, which was a stronghold of the Nayakas of Keladi. They had a feud with the Vijayanagara rulers but soon gained independence after their fall. Venkatappa Nayaka fortified the place and built a palace. The Kavaledurga Fort has three lines of walls, which are constructed of huge granite blocks following the natural contour of the hillock. Each fortification has a gateway flanked by guard rooms on either side and in between these fortifications, there are temples, a ruined palace site and basement of structures.
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Kavaledurga Fort an abode of Gods
There were around fifteen temples within the fortifications, but only three of the temples still exist – Kashi Vishwanatha temple, Sri Lakshmi Narayana temple and Shikareshwara temple. The Lakshmi Narayana temple is situated on a rock with natural steps leading up to it.The Shikareshwara temple is situated almost at the centre of the fort, on a natural hillock and affords a panoramic view of the area. The Kashi Vishwanatha temple is unique for its Islamic style doorway and the presence of two stone pillars at the entrance.
