Veerabhadra Temple
About Veerabhadra Temple
Built in 1530 CE by brothers Viranna and Virupanna under the Vijayanagar Empire, Veerabhadra Temple stands on Kurmasailam (tortoise hill) in Anantapur district. The temple comprises three shrines honoring Shiva, Vishnu, and Veerabhadra, featuring approximately 70 intricately carved stone pillars exemplifying Dravidian craftsmanship. Among its most celebrated features is the Aakaasa Sthambha, a hanging column that appears to defy gravity, alongside a monolithic Nandi sculpture measuring 27 feet in length and 15 feet in height—among India's largest. The temple is recognized in the Skanda Purana as one of the Divyakshetras, making it a significant pilgrimage destination. A giant footprint believed to belong to either Sita or Hanuman adds to its mythological significance. The name Lepakshi derives from 'Le Pakshi' (Rise, bird), words Lord Rama reportedly spoke to Jatayu from the Ramayana.
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