Much of Vijayanagar is now in ruins, as when the rulers were defeated at the hands of the invaders at the battle of Talikota in the 16th century, most of the marvelous structures and edifices were systematically destroyed. Vitthala - Vishnu is enshrined in this temple. The mahamandapam of this temple, in front of the sanctum - enclosed in the inner courtyard is of great beauty. It's base is chiseled with friezes of the swan, the horse and the warrior. At intervals, there are projections with bas reliefs portraying the deification of the ten avataras of Vishnu.