Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, which were declared as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2023, are located in _________.

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) Karnataka

Explanation:

The Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023, are located in the state of Karnataka, India. This serial nomination includes three exemplary Hoysala-style temples:​

1. Chennakeshava Temple in Belur,
2. Hoysaleswara Temple in Halebidu,
3. Keshava Temple in Somanathapura.​

Information Booster:

Features of Hoysala Temples

• Material: Built using soapstone — soft and easy to carve.
• Design:
• Built on stellate (star-shaped) platforms.
• Include multiple shrines and intricately detailed sculptures.
• Sculptural Themes: Animals, everyday life, mythological tales (epics & Puranas).
• Architectural Style: A fusion of three distinct styles:
• Dravidian
• Vesara
• Nagara (North Indian)
• Unique Traits:
• Temples were often ‘signed’ — names and details of sculptors/masonry workers inscribed.
• Represent a turn toward Hinduism (Vaishnavism and Shaivism), while Jainism was still prevalent.

Sacred Ensembles of the Hoysalas (UNESCO World Heritage)

These three iconic temples, built in the 12th and 13th centuries, reflect artistic excellence and political history:

1. Chennakeshava Temple, Belur

• Deity: Lord Vishnu (also called Vijaya Narayana)
• Built by: King Vishnuvardhana in 1117 AD
• Significance: Celebrates Hoysala victory over the Cholas.

2. Kesava Temple, Somanathapura

• Deity: Vaishnava trinity — Keshava, Janardhana, Venugopala
• Builder: Somanatha, a general of King Narasimha III in 1268 AD
• Design: Built on a 16-pointed star plan; Keshava idol is missing.

3. Hoysaleswara Temple, Halebidu

• Deity: Lord Shiva
• Era: 12th century
• Distinction: The Largest Shaiva temple built by the Hoysalas.