Built by the Hoysala king Vishnuvardhana in 1117 CE to commemorate his victory over the Cholas, the Chennakeshava Temple stands as a symbol of Hoysala power and artistic achievement. It took 103 years to complete. The temple's construction marked a shift in the Hoysala dynasty's religious affiliation from Jainism to Vaishnavism. The temple complex has undergone several renovations and additions over the centuries, reflecting the changing political and religious landscape of the region. Despite these changes, the temple has retained its original grandeur and artistic integrity. It continues to be an important pilgrimage site and a source of inspiration for artists and historians alike. The temple's history is intertwined with the rise and fall of the Hoysala Empire.