The Brihadeshwara Temple in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu is a major example of the amazing Tamil architecture and was constructed during the Chola dynasty. It boasts of Dravidian design and was built by Raja Raja Chola and is the largest temple in India. Also a unique feature about this temple is that it has been built out of a single piece of granite rock which weighed 25 tonnes. Even today it emotes the splendour and grandeur of the bygone days and gives us an insight into the rich culture of the Chola dynasty. Here is pictorial guide to this amazing temple that is presently listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
The temple is 1000 years old and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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Rock Cut Temple
It is cut out from a single large piece of granite rock.
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Pride of the Chola Dynasty
The temple was built by the emperor Raja Raja Chola in the year 1010 A.D.
Photo Courtesy: Bernard Gagnon
Temple of Lord Shiva
The prime deity of the temple is Lord Shiva.
Photo Courtesy: Benjamín Preciado
Shrine for Other Dieties
The temple has many small shrines for other Gods and Goddess.
Photo Courtesy: Bernard Gagnon
Marvellous Architecture
The temple boasts of having the most magnificent architecture.
Photo Courtesy: KARTY JazZ
Ancient Inscriptions
There are ancient inscriptions carved onto a tablet that can bee seen on the walls of the temple.
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Expressive Sculptures
The sculpture in this temple are so artistically carved that you would feel they are alive.
Photo Courtesy: Thamizhpparithi Maari
Scenic Beauty
The temple boats of having scenic natural beauty.
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Pride of Thanjavur
The Brihadeshwara Temple is the pride of Thanjavur.
Photo Courtesy: Nara J