Chandragiri, Historical fort town near Tirupati, India
Chandragiri is a historical fort town near Tirupati built with stone and brick structures showing Vijayanagar architectural style. The Raja Mahal Palace complex includes an archaeological museum, though many of the surrounding fort sections remain closed to visitors.
The town emerged as a new capital following the decline of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 16th century, when a ruling dynasty relocated here. This shift reflected the changing power dynamics across southern India during that period.
The complex contains temples serving both Shaivite and Vaishnavite devotees, reflecting the coexistence of different Hindu traditions in this place. Walking through the fort, you notice how these religious spaces were woven into the daily fabric of life here.
The archaeological museum in the palace is the main attraction and offers visitors insight into the site's history. Most of the outer fort structures are restricted, so focus your visit on the accessible palace complex.
Historical accounts mention that wealth collected from Muslim residents included nose ornaments of such quantity they were stored in multiple containers elsewhere. This detail reveals the cosmopolitan nature and trade connections of this settlement.
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