Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple is one of the most famous temples in South India, constructed in the Dravidian style of architecture. Built across an area of 156 acres, this temple is dedicated to Ranganatha, a reclining form of Hindu deity, Lord Vishnu. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple has a hall of 953 pillars which is made of granite. Intricate sculptures are the most attractive part of the hall. The Hall was built during the Vijayanagara period (1336-1565).The 236-feet Rajagopura (tower) is the tallest temple tower in India. There is also a royal temple tower, which covers a base area of 32500 sq. ft and has a height of 196 ft. It also comprises a hall containing 1000 pillars. Intricate sculptures are the most attractive part of the hall.
During the invasion of Malik Kafur in 1310-1311, the idol of the deity was stolen and taken to Delhi.. In a daring exploit, devotees of Srirangam ventured to Delhi and enthralled the emperor with their histrionics. Moved by their talent, the emperor was pleased and returned the statue of the deity of Srirangam. During second invasion in 1323 AD, the deity was taken away before the invading troops reached Srirangam. The deity was kept in the hills of TirumalaTirupati for 6 decades until their reinstatement in 1371. It is believed that 13,000 devotees laid down their lives in the fierce battle to protect the temple.This temple is the biggest functioning Hindu temple in India. The Dome over the sanctum of the temple is made up of gold and so is protected by an electric fence. The 236-feet Rajagopura (tower) is the tallest temple tower in India. There is also a royal temple tower, which covers a base area of 32500 sq. ft and has a height of 196 ft. It also comprises a hall containing 1000 pillars. Intricate sculptures are the most attractive part of the hall. The Hall was built during the Vijayanagara period (1336-1565).
Vyonkoji Palace – Thanjavur Art Gallery
Vyonkoji Palace museum also Thanjavur Art Gallery, located in the Thanjavur Palace has a collection of ancient sculptures and coins. This Gallery is also called Raja RajaChola Art Gallery. These bronze sculptures of Hindu Gods and Goddesses range from 9th to 19th Century AD. Ancient Indian lifestyle clothings, ornaments and old coins, as early as 300 BC are exhibited here. The Walls and ceiling of the Durbar hall are superbly ornamented with paintings. Pillars and Arches are decorated with fascinating scenes from Ramayana and Mahabharata. Most of the Art Gallery collection of ancient bronze statues belong to the Chola period, Vijayanagara period and later per9iod are found here.
