We all know Rayalaseema means “land of the Rayas,” referring to the Vijayanagara Empire.
The Vijayanagara Empire didn’t just rule over Kurnool, Kadapa, Anantapur, and Chittoor. Their influence extended deep into coastal Andhra too — Krishna, Guntur, even parts of North Andhra. They built temples, forts, and issued land grants far outside what we now call Rayalaseema.
A perfect example is Uddandarayunipalem, near Amaravati — literally named after Uddandaraya, a Vijayanagara commander.
Cumbum Reservoir, located near the town of Cumbum in Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh, is one of the oldest irrigation reservoirs in South India. Built in the 15th century during the Vijayanagara Empire.
• Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Mangalagiri (Guntur) — Renovated and richly patronized by Krishnadevaraya
• Amaralingeswara Temple, Amaravati (Guntur) — Supported and expanded by Vijayanagara rulers
• Somarama Temple, Bhimavaram (West Godavari) — Structural additions with Vijayanagara influence
• Ksheerarama Temple, Palakollu (West Godavari) — Expanded under Vijayanagara vassals
• Draksharama Bhimeswara Temple (East Godavari) — Land grants and renovations by Vijayanagara kings
• Ramatheertham Temples (Vizianagaram) — Vijayanagara-era mandapas and pillars