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language Kannada, Prakrit
capital(s) Banavasi
iconography Madhukesvara temple, Banavasi had one of the earliest mints in the region, as evidenced by the discovery of a 5th Century copper coin with Kannada script.

The Kadamba Empire had their capital in Banavasi (in present day Uttara Kannada) and at the peak of their power, ruled large parts of the modern state of Karnataka. The early Kadamba were feudatories of the Pallavas and became a power by themselves after King Mayurasharma defeated the Pallavan army.

They were the first Dynasty to use Kannada at an administrative level, heralding the development of Kannada as a major language.

The architectural heritage of Karnataka has had a major contribution from the Kadamba. One of the most prominent features in their buildings is the Kadamba Shikara - a pyramidal structure that rises in steps, finished by a Kalasha at the top. Their architectural sensibilities also influenced the later Hoysala style.

Over time, the Empire broke up and they branched out into smaller dynasties ruling over Goa, Halasi and Hangal. Their capital, bordering Shivamogga, was not only a commercial centre but also a literary hub with stalwarts like Adikavi Pampa, the 'First Poet' of Kannada. As patrons of Jainism, the Kadamba Kings also built numerous Jain temples.

Pallava

Western Chalukya

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