Barkur Fort

Moodahadu, Karnataka, India

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Barkur Fort, located in Moodahadu near Udupi in Karnataka, was once the capital of the Alupa dynasty, a prominent ruling family in the region between the 8th and 12th centuries.

Constructed primarily in the traditional Tulunadu style, the fort covers a large area with remnants of a royal palace, temples, and defensive walls, though much of it is now in ruins. Barkur was historically a thriving port and commercial hub connected by trade with West and Southeast Asia, reflecting its importance in the medieval period.

Archaeological findings reveal a mix of Jain and Hindu religious influences, with the presence of Jain Basadis and Shiva temples within the fort complex. Despite its grandeur, the fort and many of its monuments have suffered neglect and local damage over time, with only a few protected by the Archaeological Survey of India.

The site remains significant for its rich cultural legacy, ancient inscriptions, and its role as a historical capital in the Tulunadu region.