Malliabad Fort is regarded as an ancient monument where both history and natural beauty meets together. Several prehistoric structures which belong to Vijayanagar era exist around the fort. The royal fort is a fine specimen of Chalukyan Art. There are two life sized six feet tall elephant statues in Malliabad Fort which is engraved in white granite. It is the core attraction of Malliabad Fort. Apart from that there is one stoned elephant statues with two calves. These structures are under the supervision of governmental authorities of Karnataka. The entrances of the fort is also quite attractive and portray the architectural merit of Chalukyas.
Inside Malliabad Fort, there is also a temple of lord Vishnu. Initially the statues of elephants were placed in front of Vishnu temple. The temple was once embellished the entrance of Malliabad Fort. However, nowadays, these structures are being damaged and is in ruined condition. Malliabad Fort possesses certain wonderful entrances such as Navrang Darwaza and Kati Darwaza which are still unbroken. One require to enter into the fort through these attractively carved entrances which are considered as a distinctive Chalukyan craftsmanship. Though, at present, most of the entrances of Malliabad Fort is in rundown condition. There is requirement for preserving the statues of elephants along with the other structures of Malliabad Fort.
According to the Department of Archaeology, Malliabad Fort was created throughout 13th century, i.e. within 1294 AD by Kakatiyas of Warrangal. Moreover, it is also believed that the creation of the fort is also related with Vijayanagar Territory. Historical records states that one Vijayanagar ruler named Krishnadevaraya resided in Malliabad Fort with his forces through the historic battle of Raichur which occurred against the king of Biajpur named Adil Shah.
The history of Raichur articulates regarding the rivalry between Bahmani kings and Vijayanagar kings in order to obtain authority over Malliabad Fort and the surrounding areas, which was invulnerable once apprehended. The fort expresses articulately about the rulers who captured it successfully through fierce battles. The dual walled fort has seen several renowned battles of the past which involves Vijayanagar, Bahmani and Adil Shahi kings.
Malliabad Fort also dates back to Mauryan rulers. It has observed the sovereignty of Hoysata, Yadava and Devagiri dynasties. Thus, Malliabad Fort is considered as a place for historical significance. Yet, many historical events which is related with the fort is still uncovered. Hence, the researchers from the Department of Archaeology along with historians from Kannada University Hampi is undertaking research and excavation work on the history of the fort.
Although Malliabad Fort has lost its traditional grandeur it is regarded as a great place to visit. By visiting this fort, travellers can observe the beautifully carved elephant statues. Apart from that, there are various attractive entrances to be watched in the fort. Furthermore, in order to make Malliabad Fort more important from the viewpoint of tourism, various construction and restoration activities have undertaken by the Department of Archaeology.