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Chandravalli Cave|Chitradurga| UPSC

Chandravalli Cave

The Chandravalli cave complex in Chitradurga district of Karnataka hosts many artefacts from various dynasties and prehistorical objects.

Chandravalli Cave
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About Chandravalli cave complex:

  • It is situated close to Chitradurga fort and named as Ankali Math, after a saint from Ankalagi in Belagavi district.
  • This is accessible only through a narrow entrance and requiring powerful torches due to its pitch-dark interiors.
  • It was historically used as a meditation site and Gurukul by a saint and his followers, reflecting its historical role as a spiritual and educational center.
  • Excavations have uncovered artifacts of various dynasties including the Hoysala, Satavahana, and Vijayanagara.
  • This also includes denarii of Roman emperor Augustus Caesar and a coin of the Chinese Han dynasty Emperor Wu Ti belonging to 2nd Century BC.
  • Notable findings include a rock inscription dating back to AD 450, attributed to Mayurasharma, founder of the Kadamba dynasty.
  • Evidence suggests trade connections with Rome and China, as indicated by the coins found at the site.
  • Many phases of excavation were conducted since 1909, and later by Mortimer Wheeler under the Archaeological Survey of India in 1947.
  • The complex features multiple chambers, including a puja place with a shivlinga, a drawing room, a bedroom, and a water outlet connected to an internal tank.
  • Painted pottery and figurines from the prehistoric and Satavahana periods highlight the continuity of human habitation from the Iron Age onwards.

Ref: Souce

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Frequently Asked Question (FAQs):

What archaeological discoveries have been made at Chandravalli cave complex?

Excavations have uncovered artifacts from various dynasties including the Hoysala, Satavahana, and Vijayanagara.

What are some notable coins found at Chandravalli cave complex?

Notable coins include denarii of Roman emperor Augustus Caesar and a coin of the Chinese Han dynasty Emperor Wu Ti dating back to the 2nd century BC.

Who was the rock inscription found at Ankali Math attributed to?

A rock inscription dating back to AD 450 was found, attributed to Mayurasharma, the founder of the Kadamba dynasty.

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