SACRED ENSEMBLES OF THE HOYSALAS

SACRED ENSEMBLES OF THE HOYSALAS INSCRIBED ON THE UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE LIST Sacred Ensembles of Hoysala is a serial nomination of three temples belonging to the Hoysala era from the 12th to 13th century, located in the state of Karnataka.

The three temples are Channakeshava Temple,

Belur Hoyasalesvara Temple,

Halebidu Keshava Temple,

Somanathapura

Hoysalas were feudatories of Chalukyas of Kalyani who declared their autonomy following King Vishnuvardhana's accession in 1108 CE.

Vishnuvardhana built Hoyasalesvara and Channakeshava temple with the latter commemorating his victory over the Cholas.

Somanathapura Keshava temple was built by Somanatha, an officer under Narasimha II. Unique Features of Hoysala Temple Architecture

Basic features are drawn from different temple-building traditions including

Nagara tradition (north India), Dravida tradition (south India) Bhumija tradition (central India) Karnata Dravida tradition (Kalyani Chalukyan territories)

Use of a special type of stone - Chloritic Schist or soapstone Multi-tier Friezes (a horizontal band of sculpted or painted decoration) depicting animals, plants, humans and birds along the temple plinths.

Source: visionIAS