Archaeological Museum, Chandragiri

The Archaeological Museum in Chandragiri, established in 1988, is housed within the Raja Mahal of the Chandragiri Fort. Chandragiri, situated 14 km south of Tirupati, was once the capital of the Vijayanagar Empire. The museum offers a glimpse into the region's rich history and artistic heritage. The museum is categorized into different galleries, including the Bronze Gallery, Stone Gallery, Model Gallery, and Yaganti Gallery. The Bronze Gallery features artifacts made from a mixture of copper, gold, silver, and brass (Pancha Loha), including utensils, temple ware, and coins dating back to the 10th century. Highlights include idols of Lord Vishnu, bells, harathi plates, and sculptures of various deities. The Stone Gallery displays stone sculptures, including Kalyana Sundara (Shiva's marriage to Parvati), Kala Bhairava, and seated Vishnu. The Model Gallery houses Paleolithic tools, microlith tools, stucco heads, and copper coins from the Vijayanagara period. The museum also features life-size replicas of Vijayanagara rulers like Krishnadevaraya and Venkatapatiraya with their consorts. Artifacts from Gudimallam, Gandikota, and Yaganti are also part of the museum's collection, providing a comprehensive view of the region's archaeological treasures. The Raja Mahal itself, with its Indo-Sarcenic style, arched corridors, and massive pillars, is an architectural marvel that enhances the museum experience.