Brihadeeswara Temple Architecture

Timeline

1. c. 1003–1008Thanjavur · Tamil NaduRajaraja I ordered the construction of a large Shiva temple at Thanjavur, employing many craftsmen and stone, using a technique combining dry masonry and mortar, establishing the Chola temple tower architectural paradigm.
2. 1009–1010Brihadeeswara Temple · ThanjavurThe temple's main vimana tower stands about 66 meters high, topped by a single granite capstone weighing about 80 tons; copper-plate inscriptions in the temple record completion in the 25th year of Rajaraja's reign, i.e., around 1010 CE.
3. 1200–1987Brihadeeswara Temple · Tamil NaduSubsequent dynasties added mandapas and murals; the temple continued to function as a religious center, and in 1987 it was inscribed as part of the Great Living Chola Temples, becoming a global symbol of Chola architectural culture.