The dome on the top of the apex of the 63 metres high temple encloses an gigantic Shiva Lingam made of single piece of granite weighing approximately 81 tons. The inner courtyard is guarded by huge Nandi also carved out of a single piece of rock and is second only to India's largest at the Lepakshi Temple in Andhra Pradesh. Here one can also visit the Saraswati Mahal Library dating back from the time of the Marathas contain a rare collection of books and manuscripts on paper and palm leaves.
Tanjavur rose to glory, during the later Chola reign, between the 10th and 14th centuries, and became a centre of learning and culture. vbcrlfvbcrlfTanjavur is well known for its traditional handicrafts - art plates, bell metal castings, silk carpets, pith work, bronze icons, and classical Indian musical instruments.
Sri Brihadisvara Temple
Built by the great Chola king, Raja Raja I in the 10th century AD, this temple is an outstanding example of the Chola architecture.
The Palace
The Palace, adjacent to the temple is a vast structure of fine masonry, built partly by the Nayaks around 1550 AD, and partly by the Marathas.
Art Gallery
A superb collection of bronze statues from the 9th to 12th centuries.
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