Bangalore, Dec. 28: The Infosys Foundation has made its first donation to a heritage project, helping restore a 1,400-year-old Karnataka temple complex with a Rs 4.5-crore grant and saying that while "it is crucial to support scientific progress, conserving historical monuments is equally important".

The philanthropic arm of the Bangalore-based tech giant Infosys handled the architectural restoration of the Somanatheswara temple in Lakshmeshwara, 40km from Hubli town in north Karnataka, a foundation statement said.

The restored shrine - one of 50 such sites in Lakshmeshwara - was unveiled today and the event celebrated with a symposium. The complex houses several smaller temples, all of which benefited from the project.

"Infosys Foundation has contributed Rs 4.5 crore towards the architectural and cultural restoration of the temple, including repairs of structures as old as 1,400 years," the statement said.

The foundation, set up in 1996, had so far been involved in health care, science and technology, social welfare and art projects.

"While it is crucial to support scientific progress, conserving our ancient historical monuments is equally important. These monuments are a testimony of our rich culture and a magnificent heritage for future generations," foundation chairperson Sudha Murty said.

She added that the Somanatheswara complex reflected the glory of Karnataka's craftsmanship and the essence of its culture and tradition. "By supporting its restoration, the Infosys Foundation is doing its bit to support historical art and culture."

The site showcases architecture dating back to the Chalukya, Rashtrakuta and the Vijayanagar periods.

Infosys has contributed 2 per cent of its average profit over the past three years to the foundation each year. For 2015-16, it has pledged Rs 270 crore.