Vijayanagara Empire: Art and Economy

Flourished between the 14th and 17th centuries in South India.
Known for distinctive Dravidian style architecture.
Key features:
- Grand temples with towering gopurams (gateway towers).
- Intricate stone carvings and murals depicting mythology and daily life.
Notable structures:
- Virupaksha Temple in Hampi.
- Vittala Temple with its musical pillars.
Contributions to literature, music, and dance forms.

Engaged in trade with various countries including Persia, Arabia, and Southeast Asia.
Maintained diplomatic ties with foreign powers such as the Portuguese.
Utilized trade relations to enhance economic strength and cultural exchanges.

Agrarian economy, heavily reliant on agriculture; rice, sugarcane, and cotton were major crops.
Implemented advanced irrigation techniques, including tank systems.
Active trade networks facilitated the export of spices, textiles, and precious stones.
Taxation system based on land revenue, trade duties, and customs.

Patronage of Kannada, Telugu, and Tamil literature.
Flourishing of classical music and dance forms, notably Carnatic music.
Promotion of religious tolerance; notable for supporting both Hindu and Jain communities.
Festivals celebrated with grandeur, enhancing local culture and unity.

Monarchical system with the king at the helm; described as a 'Rajanya' (noble ruler).
The administrative division into provinces (Nadu) managed by governors (Nayakas).
Bureaucratic setup included various departments for revenue, military, and public works.
Strong military organization, prominent use of cavalry and artillery.

Flourished from the 14th to 17th centuries in South India, establishing a prominent cultural identity.
Characterized by distinctive Dravidian architecture with:
- Grand temples featuring towering gopurams, creating an impressive visual impact.
- Intricate stone carvings and murals that illustrate mythology and everyday life, highlighting artistic skills.
Notable structures include:
- Virupaksha Temple located in Hampi, a crucial religious site.
- Vittala Temple known for its musical pillars, exemplifying advanced acoustics in architecture.
Contributions extended to literature, music, and traditional dance forms, enriching cultural heritage.

Engaged in trade with Persia, Arabia, and Southeast Asia, enhancing economic ties.
Established diplomatic connections with foreign powers, notably the Portuguese, facilitating cultural exchanges.
Trade relations were vital for boosting economic strengths and integrating diverse cultures.

Predominantly agrarian economy with key crops such as rice, sugarcane, and cotton driving agriculture.
Advanced irrigation techniques, particularly tank systems, improved agricultural productivity.
Established active trade networks that allowed the export of spices, textiles, and precious stones, fostering economic prosperity.
Taxation system comprised land revenue, trade duties, and customs, ensuring a steady income for the empire.

Significant patronage of regional languages including Kannada, Telugu, and Tamil, leading to a literary renaissance.
Classical music and dance, especially Carnatic music, flourished under royal support, enriching artistic traditions.
Emphasized religious tolerance, supporting both Hindu and Jain communities, promoting diversity.
Local festivals celebrated with grandeur, reinforcing cultural identity and community unity.

Operated under a monarchy with a king referred to as 'Rajanya,' ensuring centralized authority.
Administrative division into provinces called Nadu, each governed by a Nayaka (governor).
Bureaucratic structure included specialized departments for revenue, military, and public works to maintain effective governance.
Strong military organization featured cavalry and artillery, indicating a robust defense strategy.