Hassan was under the control of great Hoysala Empire during 11th to 13th century AD. This was the period when the great temples of Belur and Halebid were constructed. The region of Hassan was also greatly influenced by Jainism and later it became a well-known center of Jain literature.

The Channakeshava temple at Belur, which was (the earlier Capital of Hoysala Kingdom) built by the emperor Vishnuvardhana, during 1117 AD to commemorate his conversion from Jainism to Vaishnavism, has attracted connoisseurs of art the World over, through its intricate sculpting wonders. The temple built on a podium of star shaped platform has outer walls which are far famed for the 'beautiful shilabalikas' carved out of stone. Their beauty is the inspiration for many odes. The pillars in the 'Navaranga' of the temple are stunning. The 650 charging elephants on the frieze around the walls outside are all different from each other. The exotic bracket figures (Madanikas) on the walls of this temple are serene, playful enhancing the overall effect of this pinnacle of architectural excellence.
Inside even in the darkness, you can see the hand-lathe-turned shining pillars, each unique in its own splendor. On the smooth circular platform in front of the shine, you can see the beautiful Shanthala devi, queen of King Vishnuvardhana.

Halebeed temple is another great example of temple architecture the twin temples of Hoysaleshwara, Kedareshwara built by Vishnuvardhana and Ballala-II at Halabeed. Sequences from Ramayana, Mahabharatha & Bhagavatha are depicted on the outer walls of these temples. The efficiency and experience of the sculpture, who had carved these stories in stone is bewitching. Hoysalaeswara Temple standing on a platform like a casket, richly endowed with most finely detailed scroll work in stone. Outside there is a Nandi (Bull) the mount of Lord Shiva bullock where the palace stood, connected to the temple by a passage. Inside its dark depths, the queen Shantala Devi beckons from an alcove. The figure of mortals and immortals are larger here are compared to Belur and are beautifully chiseled, in shining black stone. The walls of the temples are covered with variety of gods and goddesses, animals , birds and dancing girls. there is a museum on the lawn with 12-13th century sculpture and the gold coins in use at the time. The Kedreshwara temple where the sculptor's virtuosity seems to have surpassed even the goldsmith's skill in its sheer intricacy. One Km from Halebeed is Basti Hill where there are Jain Basties with gleaming black stone pillars.