Although this temple is called as Durga temple there is no durga in this temple! It is called so because of the vicinity to the fort (Durga in Kannada). Earlier it was a Surya temple which was subsequently converted to Shiva Temple. This temple was built by Aatada Ale Komarasingha during the dynasty of Vikramaditya II. It is one of the examples of experiments in temple designing that took place at Aihole. It is apsidal in shape with its hind side resembling the back side of the elephant. The pillara in this temple have figures of Gods and Goddesses and amorous couples. It was built between 7th and 8th Century. This temple is not under worship these days!
