Chapter 7 Vijayanagara The Capital and its Environs| Class 12 History Notes

Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs is a topic in Class 12 History NCERT Chapter 7. The chapter introduces students to the Vijayanagara Empire, one of the greatest empires of southern India. The chapter begins by discussing the rise of the Vijayanagara Empire, which was founded in 1336 by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka. The chapter then goes on to discuss the capital city of Vijayanagara, which was located in eastern central Karnataka, close to the boundary of Andhra Pradesh.

In this article, we will look into the topic Class 12 History Chapter 7 Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs in detail. It is an important topic of Class 12 History NCERT. Students can go through this article to get comprehensive notes on Chapter 7 Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs.

Chapter 7 Vijayanagara The Capital and its Environs| Class 12 History Notes

Water Resources

Vijayanagara is a city located in a natural basin formed by the Tungabhadra River, surrounded by granite hills and streams. Embarkments were built along these streams to create reservoirs. Due to the arid zone, elaborate arrangements were made to store rainwater and conduct it to the city. The most important tank, the Kalamapuram tank, was built in the early fifteenth century and irrigated nearby fields. The Hiriya canal, built by kings of the Sangama dynasty, drew water from a dam across the Tungabhadra and irrigated the cultivated valley.

The Vijayanagara Empire was known for its efficient water management system. The empire built several dams and canals to divert water from the Tungabhadra River to different parts of the empire. The empire also built several tanks to store water for irrigation and drinking.

The water management system of the Vijayanagara Empire was very efficient and helped the empire to prosper. The empire was able to produce a large amount of food and was able to support a large population. The empire was also able to build several impressive temples and other structures.

Fortifications and Roads

The city of Vijayanagara was surrounded by seven lines of fortifications, including seven lines that encircled the city, its agricultural hinterland, and forests. The outermost wall connected the hills surrounding the city, with massive masonry construction and no mortar or cementing agent used. The inner portion of the walls was made of earth packed with rubble, with square or rectangular bases projected outwards.

The most significant feature of the fortification was its enclosure of agricultural tracts, with cultivated fields, gardens, and houses between the first, second, and third walls. This was done to protect the agricultural belt from medieval sieges, which often aimed to starve defenders into submission. The rulers of Vijayanagara adopted a more expensive and elaborate strategy of protecting the agricultural belt itself. The fort was entered through well-guarded gates, which linked the city to major roads. Gateways were distinctive architectural features that often defined the structures they regulated access to. Archaeologists have studied roads within the city and those leading out from it, identifying them by tracing paths through gateways and finds of pavements.

The Urban Core

Archaeological evidence suggests that the houses of ordinary people in the urban core were occupied by rich traders and Muslims. Fine Chinese porcelain was found in certain areas, suggesting they were occupied by traders. Tombs and mosques in this area have unique functions, resembling mandapas found in Hampi temples. Field surveys show several shrines and small temples, suggesting various cults supported by different communities. Wells, rainwater tanks, and temple tanks may have served as water sources for ordinary town dwellers.

The urban core had splendid layout with forts, palaces, gardens and temples in it. The area includes a royal center, natural rock barriers, and military fortifications. It was additionally the Muslim private quarter. Burial places and mosques have unmistakable capacities, yet they look like the mandapas found in the sanctuaries of Hampi. Portuguese voyager Barbosa portrayed areas of standard individuals too assembled and organised by occupations, with long roads and many open spots. Field reviews demonstrate that the whole region had various altars and little sanctuaries, highlighting the predominance of different factions and networks. The thoughts additionally show that wells, water tanks, and sanctuary tanks filled in as water sources to customary town inhabitants.

The capital city of Vijayanagara has over 1,600 surviving monuments. These monuments are divided into three general zones:

• Fortified urban core: This area includes a royal center, natural rock barriers, and military fortifications.
• Sacred center: This area includes temples and shrines, such as the Ramachandra temple.
• Suburban settlements: This area includes the elephant stables.

Conclusion – Class 12 History Notes Chapter 7 Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs

In conclusion, The Vijayanagara Empire was a powerful empire that ruled over South India for over 200 years. It was founded in 1336 by two brothers, Harihara and Bukka Raya, and reached its peak under the rule of Krishnadevaraya in the 16th century. The empire was known for its wealth, its military strength, and its cultural achievements. The Vijayanagara Empire was a major center of trade and commerce. It was also a center of learning and culture. The empire’s capital, Vijayanagara, was a magnificent city that was home to many temples, palaces, and other public buildings.

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FAQs on Class 12 History Notes Chapter 7 Vijayanagara: The Capital and its Environs

What is the main focus of Class 12 History Chapter 7?

The chapter focuses on Vijayanagara, its capital, and the surrounding areas, exploring the empire’s history, governance, and cultural significance.

Who founded the Vijayanagara Empire?

The empire was founded by Harihara I and Bukka Raya I, two brothers, in 1336 CE.

What was the significance of Vijayanagara’s capital city?

The capital city served as a political, economic, and cultural hub, showcasing the empire’s grandeur and prosperity.

What were the key features of Vijayanagara’s governance?

Vijayanagara had a centralized administration, with a sophisticated system of governance, efficient taxation, and military organization.

How did Vijayanagara contribute to South Indian art and architecture?

It patronized the construction of majestic temples, palaces, and monuments, blending indigenous Dravidian and Indo-Islamic architectural styles.

What role did trade play in Vijayanagara’s economy?

Vijayanagara’s strategic location facilitated trade routes, making it a prosperous center for commerce and cultural exchange.

What factors led to the decline of the Vijayanagara Empire?

Internal conflicts, external invasions, and economic decline contributed to the empire’s downfall in the late 16th century.