Part of: Karnataka Gk set 29

The ruins of Vijayanagar at Hampi were bought to light in 1800 by

Category: Karnataka Gk

Hint: Think about the time period and the explorer's nationality.

Correct Answer: B) Colonel Colin Mackenzie.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The ruins of Vijayanagar at Hampi are a significant archaeological site located in the state of Karnataka, India. The Vijayanagara Empire, which flourished from the 14th to the 16th century, was one of the most powerful empires in South India. The capital city of Vijayanagara was located at Hampi, and the ruins of this once-great city are a testament to the empire's architectural and cultural achievements.

The rediscovery of these ruins is attributed to Colonel Colin Mackenzie, a Scottish surveyor and antiquarian who worked for the East India Company. Mackenzie was born in 1754 and served as a military engineer and surveyor in India. He was deeply interested in the history and culture of the regions he surveyed, and his work in documenting and preserving historical sites was groundbreaking for its time.

In 1800, Mackenzie visited Hampi and was the first to systematically document the ruins of Vijayanagara. His detailed surveys and drawings provided valuable information about the layout and architecture of the city. Mackenzie's work laid the foundation for future archaeological studies and helped to preserve the historical significance of the site.

The discovery of the Vijayanagara ruins by Mackenzie is important for several reasons. First, it brought attention to a significant historical site that had been largely forgotten. Second, it provided valuable insights into the architecture, art, and culture of the Vijayanagara Empire. Finally, Mackenzie's work set a precedent for the systematic documentation and preservation of historical sites, which has been crucial for the study of Indian history and archaeology.

It is important to note that the other options provided in the question are not relevant to the discovery of the Vijayanagara ruins. Leonardo da Vinci, a famous Italian Renaissance artist and inventor, lived in the 15th and 16th centuries and had no connection to the rediscovery of the ruins. The names "Humpty" and "Jhon 2" are not historical figures and do not have any connection to the discovery of the Vijayanagara ruins.

In summary, the rediscovery of the Vijayanagara ruins at Hampi in 1800 is attributed to Colonel Colin Mackenzie, a Scottish surveyor and antiquarian who worked for the East India Company. His work in documenting and preserving these ruins has been crucial for understanding the history and culture of the Vijayanagara Empire.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Incorrect. Leonardo da Vinci was an Italian Renaissance polymath and lived in the 15th and 16th centuries, long before the rediscovery of the Vijayanagar ruins in 1800.
  • Option B: Correct. Colonel Colin Mackenzie, a Scottish surveyor and antiquarian, rediscovered the ruins of Vijayanagar at Hampi in 1800. His work in documenting and preserving these ruins has been crucial for understanding the history and culture of the Vijayanagar Empire.
  • Option C: Incorrect. "Humpty" is not a historical figure and does not have any connection to the discovery of the Vijayanagar ruins.
  • Option D: Incorrect. "Jhon 2" is not a historical figure and does not have any connection to the discovery of the Vijayanagar ruins.

Mnemonic: C for Colonel, C for Colin, C for Mackenzie

Back to Karnataka Gk set 29 – Practice all questions