Warangal

History

Warangal was the ancient capital of the Kakatiyas, an Andhra dynasty, whose Prola Raja founded the place in the 12th century AD. However, some also identify it with Worakalli, the capital of the Adeva Rajas of Tuluva Andhra or Telengana in the 8th century AD. The ancient name of Warangal was known to be Orugallu or Omtikonda on account of huge boulder like hillock situated near the swayambhu Siva Temple and is also called "EKASILANAGARAM". In course of time, it was called as "Orugallu", and finally known as Warangal. Warangal has many places, which attracts tourists in large number. It is also referred in the travel diaries of Marco Polo.

The city was once the heartland of Telugu culture. The capital of the Kakatiya rulers Warangal today contains some of the best forms of architecture, especially in temples. The 1000-pillar temple and the Ramappa temple in the district are glowing examples of the exquisite architecture patronized by the Kakatiyas. Warangal city today is part of a cluster of three towns - Warangal, Kazipet and Hanamkonda, the district headquarters. The attractions in the city are Planetarium, Musical Garden, Rock garden, Archeological Museum, Samskriti Vihar. The district is also known for its picturesque lakes, hand-woven thick cotton fibre carpets, scroll painting done on cloth in earth colours mainly at Cheriyal nearby, and sheet-metal artistry at Pembarti.

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