During a major restoration project at a 12th-century Hoysala temple in Karnataka's Hassan district, conservators have uncovered a series of hidden stone friezes depicting vessels and sailors. These carvings provide a rare visual record of the maritime trade connections between the inland Hoysala Empire and distant ports in the Middle East and Southeast Asia.
The friezes show detailed images of multi-masted ships and the exchange of spices for precious stones. This discovery highlights the economic reach of the Hoysalas and the importance of sea trade to the prosperity of the medieval Kannada kingdoms.