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AFOOT THKOTJGH THE 



originally in a less commanding position, it has suffered 

 even more severely from the destroying powers of human 

 hands and the havoc wrought by long ages. Tradition 

 tells that in the ninth century King Avanti-Vanna 

 reigned here, and built there two great temples, and 

 dedicated them both to Vishnu as Mahadeo. The 

 massive fluted columns still left standing are extra- 

 ordinarily beautiful, and every part is decorated with a 



Ruin at Avantipura 



wealth of carving. The surrounding arcade has been 

 entirely filled in, owing to some cause not definitely 

 understood. A landslip or vast flood may have done the 

 damage. A small portion sufficient to show the delicate 

 grace of the arches and their supports has been 

 excavated, and it seems a pity that the work is not 

 thoroughly carried out. 



The impression of Greek influences left by these 



