It was said to be the second-largest medieval-era city in the world (after Beijing) by 1500. The wealth of Hampi attracted traders from throughout the region. Because of this, it now has an excellent road network and public infrastructure.

However, in 1565, at the Battle of Talikota, a number of conflicts with Muslim Sultanates came to a head. The Vijayanagara dynasty was ended when a coalition of sultanates captured and executed the king. After that, they sacked and looted Hampi. According to reports, the once-rich city burned for six months and was eventually left as ruins.