Established in 1336 by Harihara and Bukka, the Vijayanagara Empire ("City of Victory") rose as a bulwark against the Delhi Sultanate in the Deccan. Its capital, Hampi, was one of the wealthiest cities in the world.

Golden Age

The empire reached its peak under Krishnadevaraya (1509–1529), a patron of arts, literature (Telugu and Sanskrit), and a brilliant military strategist.

Timeline

• 1336: Foundation of Vijayanagara.
• 1509-1529: Reign of Krishnadevaraya.
• 1565: Battle of Talikota; defeat by the Deccan Sultanates and destruction of Hampi.
• 1646: Final decline of the Aravidu dynasty.