An Encyclopaedia of Indian Archaeology v1.c19.s1.40

v1.c19.s1.40

(xii) Karnataka. In Karnataka the Neolithic and Chalcolithic settlers [4.6.9; 4.14.8] abounded both on flat-topped hills and valleys below: TEKKALAKOTA, T. NARSIPUR, HALLUR, PIKLIHAL, HEMMIGE, BRAHMAGIRI, SANGANAKOLLU, etc., have revealed evidence of this period. In the next stage a considerable expansion of settlements is suggested by the Megalithic graves [4.17.9], although corresponding settlements have not been satisfactorily identified. The early historical period begins with the Aśokan inscriptions of the 3rd century B.C. At BRAHMAGIRI occupation continues up to the early centuries A.D. At Vijadrog or BANAVASI (Vijayapurī of a Karle inscription) occupation has been traced to the 3rd century B.C., and at a place called Udayvara near modern Udipi there is evidence of an early historical fortification.