Virupaksha Temple

History

The Virupaksha Temple is the only major shrine in Hampi still in daily use, dedicated to Shiva as Virupaksha and built from the 7th century onward, rising to greatness under the Vijayanagara Empire. Its 50-metre gopuram towers over the bazaar street, and the temple's ceiling paintings and the shadow-room optical effect at the gate are highlights of the Hampi ruins.