Question

Identify three major zones on the plan. Look at the central part. Can you see channels connecting up with the river? See how many fortification walls you can trace. Was the sacred centre fortified?

Answer 1

1. The three major zones on the plan are the Sacred Centre (temple zone in the north), the Royal Centre (palace zone in the southwest), and the Urban Core (residential zone for citizens).
2. Yes, winding canal channels are clearly visible. They cut across the landscape to channel water from the Tungabhadra River directly into the agricultural fields and the city centre.
3. Multiple concentric lines of walls can be traced surrounding the distinct zones on this map. Historically, contemporary travellers like Abdur Razzaq noted that the city was protected by seven lines of fortification walls.
4. Yes, the sacred centre was independently fortified with its own strong defensive walls to protect the temple complexes and their wealth.