Defence Architecture in Early North Karnataka c19.6

c19.6

The early forts in Banavāsi (Fig. 6) and Hāngal (Fig. 52) are located in typical Malnad area. The raw material used is therefore essentially mud. Only for hearting (Fig. 10 and Fig. 55) occasionally either burnt bricks or the cut laterite stone blocks are used. Secondly, the layout of the forts (Fig. 7 and Fig. 53) is generally in a more naturally protected areas such as deep bend of the rivers with the elevated spots. Thirdly, the fort walls (Illn. A2) were further strengthened by the growth of forest on them, which holds firmly the earth. Fourthly, the plans of the forts are quite simple; and have straight direct entrances across the moat, well guarded then by soldiers. These features are well illustrated in the early parts of the forts at Banavāsi and Hāngal.