The town of Belgaum is the assimilation point of various cultures. Due to its proximity with the states of Maharashtra and Goa, Belgaum has acquired the cultural flavor of these states and blended it with the local Kannada culture to create a rich heritage, which is unique in its manifestation. Belgaum is not only famous for its history but also for its natural beauty. It is also known as Malendu or Rain Country and the vegetation here is lush green throughout the year.

The past of Belgaum is chequered. It was overrun many times, owing to its strategic location on the Indian peninsula. In the past Belgaum was known as Venugrama (Bamboo village) because of the abundance of bamboo trees in this region. It was a part of the Chalukya Empire (6th-8th century ad), as is evident from the remains of monuments found here. The history of Belgaum town dates back to 12th century ad, when it was built and ruled by local rulers by the name of Rattas. A fort built by the Ratta rulers still stands here and is an important tourist attraction. Belgaum was later ruled by the Yadavas of Devangiri and then became a part of the great Vijaynagar Kingdom. The Bahamani rulers of the Deccan captured it in the 15th century. They not only renovated the Belgaum fort, but also built the Jami Masjid and other important monuments. The Mughals took over Belgaum and renamed it as Azamnagar. Belgaum witnessed a prolonged power struggle between the Mughals and the Marathas. The Marathas took over this town and held it until the British took over.

Kittur in Belgaum district is a place of historical importance. Queen Chennamma of Kittur (1778-1829) is known for her resistance to British rule; another person in the history of Belgaum known for his resistance to British rule is Sangolli Rayanna.

Chennamma received training in horse riding , sword fighting and archery in her young age. She was married to Raja Mullasarja of Kittur, a princely state of Belgaum in Karnataka. Her husband died in 1816. Her only son died in 1824. Chennamma adopted Shivalingappa as her son and made him heir to the throne. The British did not accept this and ordered the expulsion of Shivalingappa. The Rani defied the order. A great battle ensued. The Rani fought the British with great courage and skill. She could not, however, hold out for long. She was taken captive and lodged in Bailhongal Fort where she died on 21-02-1829.