About

Ramappa Temple, also known as the Rudreswara temple, is a Kakatiya style Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. An inscription in the temple says it was constructed in the year 1213 CE by Recherla Rudra—a general of Kakatiya ruler Ganapati Deva. The Temple complex consisting of three temples, was designed by the architect Ramappa, and constructed between 1212 and 1234. The Temple stands on a 6-foot high, star-shaped platform. The hall in front of the sanctum has numerous carved pillars that have been positioned to create an effect that combines light and space wonderfully. The main structure is in a reddish sandstone, but the columns round the outside have large brackets of black basalt which is rich in iron, magnesium and silica. These are carved as mythical animals or female dancers or musicians. There are two small Shiva shrines on either side of the main temple, with the figure of an enormous Nandi within, facing the shrine of Shiva. The roof (garbhalayam) of the temple is built with bricks, which are so light that they are able to float on water. Upon examination it was found that these bricks (and others of similar vintage from Bidar), use saw dust to make them light and porous. There was a major earthquake during the 17th century which caused some damage. It survived the earthquake due to its 'sandbox technique' of laying foundation. Unusually, the temple is named after the architect and sculptor who built it, Ramappa, rather than after the presiding deity or the ruler of the period when it was built.