| Raichur Fort | |
|---|---|
| Raichur,India | |
 Raichur Fort | |
| Site information | |
| Type | Fort |
| Controlled by | Government of Karnataka |
| Open to the public | Yes |
| Condition | Ruins |
| Location | |
  Raichur Fort | |
| Coordinates | 16°2′N77°37′E / 16.033°N 77.617°E /16.033; 77.617 |
| Site history | |
| Built | 1294; 731 years ago (1294) |
| Built by | Kakatiya dynasty |
Raichur Fort[1] is a fortress located on a hilltop in the heart of theRaichur inNorth Karnataka.
TheRaichur region (Raichur Doab) has been ruled by several families; theKakatiya dynasty,Rashtrakutas,Vijayanagar Empire,Bahmanis andNizams.
Fortifications have existed since the time of theChalukyas of Badami ; during the rule ofChalukyas of Kalyani the fort was renovated. The present fort was constructed in 1294 CE during Kakatiya rule. An inscription records that it was built by Raja Vithala by order of Raja Gore Gangaya Raddivaru, minister of QueenRudramma Devi.[2]
The fort was of strategic importance to theBahmani Sultanate, who significantly expanded the structure.[3]
During the rule ofVijayanagara Empire,Krishnadevaraya built the north entrance in celebration of one of his conquests.
The fort is known for its many inscriptions, in several languages.[4]
In March 2011, 95 red granite balls and a cannon dated to the 13th Century were discovered by engineers cleaning the north west wall of the fort.[5]
