Why in News
- Union Minister of State announced comprehensive development plans for the fort and Gaining popularity as a trekking and sightseeing spot with its panoramic views.
Location
- Situated in Guntur district, about 27 km southwest of Guntur city, at 1,050-1,700 feet elevation.
- Spread across hills in the Kondaveedu range, largest hill fort in Andhra Pradesh.
History
- Construction began around 1335 AD by Prolaya Vema Reddy of the Reddy dynasty, who shifted capital from Addanki.
- Strengthened by Telugu Chodas and Kakatiyas earlier; later captured by Vijayanagara's Krishnadevaraya in 1516, then Golconda Sultans (renamed Murtazanagar).
- Key rulers include Anavota Reddy and Kumaragiri; faced sieges from Gajapatis, Bahmanis.
Architecture
- Features 23 bastions (like Kondareddi, Nemmalla, Tara Buruju), massive granite walls, two entrances (Kolepalli Darwaza, Nadella Darwaza).
- Blend of Hindu-Islamic styles using granite stones and lime mortar; includes temples, palaces, water tanks (Muthyaalamma).
Significance
- Known for impregnable defenses, water conservation systems (tanks store water year-round).
- Houses temples and stupas; underscores regional sanctity and Reddy Kingdom's legacy.
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