One of the capitals of the Hoysala Empire, Belur is renowned for its magnificent Hoysala temple complex comprising of the Chennakeshava Temple, built by Hoysala Vishnuvardhana in 1116AD, is acknowledged as one of the finest examples of Hoysala architecture, and is said to have been built to commemorate his victory over the Cholas.
The temple complex displays some stunning works of rich ornamentation and architecture, including the gigantic statue of Lord Vijaya Narayana, hand lathe turned filigreed pillars and numerous sculptures. The main entrance of the shrine is guarded by twin statues of a youth slaying a tiger the royal symbol of the Hoysala dynasty. The fringes decorating the walls depict scenes from the Ramayana. The temple also displays a sculpture of Shanthala devi, queen of King Vishnuvardhana, in the smooth circular platform in front of the shrine, and the winged figure of Garuda. Lord Vishnu’s carrier at the entrance facing the temple. The most marvelous specimen found at the temple, however, are the angled bracket figures depicting celestial nymphs.
The walled court of the ChennakeshavaTemple housed the impressive shrine of Chennigaraya, Viranarayana, Sridevi and Bhoodevi, within its precincts all displaying intricate carvings and sculptures.
Image via Wikipedia
