Mayilapore

Mayilapore is a neighborhood in Chennai, India, located in the central part of the city. It is one of the oldest residential areas in Chennai and is renowned for its cultural significance and historical landmarks. The name "Mayilapore" is believed to be derived from "Mayil" meaning peacock and "puram" meaning a town, possibly referring to the presence of peacocks in the area historically or its association with the deity Murugan, often depicted with a peacock as his vehicle.

The most prominent landmark in Mayilapore is the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This temple is a significant pilgrimage site and a masterpiece of Dravidian architecture. Another important religious site is the San Thome Basilica, built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, a significant Christian pilgrimage destination. The area also features the Ramakrishna Mission Vidyapith, a prominent educational institution, and the Luz Church, another historic religious building.

Mayilapore is a vibrant commercial and residential hub. It is known for its traditional arts and crafts, music sabhas (cultural organizations), and a lively arts scene, especially during the December music and dance festival season. The neighborhood retains much of its old-world charm with narrow streets, traditional houses, and bustling markets selling flowers, vegetables, and handicrafts. It is a melting pot of various communities and is considered a cultural heart of Chennai.