Jamia Masjid, Penukonda

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Penukonda, once the capital of the Vijayanagara Empire after the fall of Hampi, is a treasure trove of architectural surprises and forgotten heritage. Amid its temples, forts, and water tanks, stands the Jamia Masjid.

From a distance, the building may resemble a typical Vijayanagara-period mandapa. Indeed, it originally was. A classic hall with sturdy pillars, a simple sloping roof, and yalis (mythical lions) at the base, this mandapa was most likely part of a Shiva temple that stood within the Penukonda fort precincts. Today, that very mandapa serves as the front façade of the Jamia Masjid.

An inscription found within the mosque clearly dates the mosque to 1668 CE, built by Abdul Hassan during the reign of Ali Adil Shah II of the Bijapur Sultanate. Architecturally, the Jamia Masjid bears close resemblance to other Bijapuri mosques.

Happy travelling.



Location: Penukonda, Andhra Pradesh 515110, India

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