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Great Living Chola Temples

Listed under Temples in Thanjavur, India.

These three great temples were built during the Chola rule of southern India, which continued until the 13th Century. The Airavatesvara temple is dedicated to Shiva, and contains many valuable pieces of art, both inside and out. It is very finely detailed and its many-columned structure of pink and brown stone is fronted by a carved chariot-shaped entrance platform and horses. The Gangaikonda Cholapuram and Brihadeesawarar temples are larger and somewhat less ornate, but the former has some exceptional sculptural pieces and the latter has the tallest central tower of any Hindu temple, tapering to a fine point in the centre to avoid ever casting a noon shadow.

Written by larapiegeler.

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road facility is not correct and kumbakonam bus facility not available

Comment posted 18th September 2009 by rajarajan.a.

Great Living Chola Temples

The Great Living Chola Temples were built by kings of the Chola Empire, which stretched over all of south India and the neighbouring islands. The site includes three great 11th- and 12th-century Temples: the Brihadisvara Temple at Thanjavur, the Brihadisvara Temple at Gangaikondacholisvaram and the Airavatesvara Temple at Darasuram. The Temple of Gangaikondacholisvaram, built by Rajendra I, was completed in 1035. Its 53-m vimana (sanctum tower) has recessed corners and a graceful upward curving movement, contrasting with the straight and severe tower at Thanjavur. The Airavatesvara temple complex, built by Rajaraja II, at Darasuram features a 24-m vimana and a stone image of Shiva. The temples testify to the brilliant achievements of the Chola in architecture, sculpture, painting and bronze casting.

Review posted 7th December 2007 by World Reviewer Staff.

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Great Living Chola Temples