Karnataka’s sacred ensembles of Hoysalas inscribed on UNESCO world heritage list

The sacred ensembles of Hoysalas, the group of temples in Karnataka’s Halebeedu, have been inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The world body made the announcement in a post on X on Monday, a day after Shantiniketan, the famed place in West Bengal where poet Rabindranath Tagore built Visva-Bharati over a century ago, received the coveted tag.

“Just inscribed on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, #India. Congratulations!” UNESCO said on X.

🔴BREAKING!

Just inscribed on the @UNESCO #WorldHeritage List: Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, #India 🇮🇳. Congratulations! 👏👏

➡️ https://t.co/69Xvi4BtYv #45WHC pic.twitter.com/Frc2IGlTkf

— UNESCO 🏛️ #Education #Sciences #Culture 🇺🇳 (@UNESCO) September 18, 2023

The decision was taken during the 45th session of the World Heritage Committee currently underway in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The ensembles, consisting of temples, shrines, and associated structures, are scattered across Karnataka and have earned international recognition for their exquisite architectural beauty and intricate stone carvings.

“More pride for India! The magnificent Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas have been inscribed on the @UNESCO -Heritage List. The timeless beauty and intricate details of the Hoysala temples are a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage and the exceptional craftsmanship of our ancestors,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi posted on X.

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The Hoysala dynasty ruled over Karnataka from the 11th to the 14th centuries.

Known for their patronage of art and architecture, the Hoysalas left an indelible mark through their intricately crafted temples and sculptures.