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.