thanjavur

Thanjavur, also known as Tanjore, is a city in Tamil Nadu and the administrative headquarters of Thanjavur district. It is situated in the fertile Cauvery delta and has long served as a cultural and political center in South India. The city is noted for its historical monuments, temples, and distinctive artistic traditions that reflect centuries of dynastic rule.

Historically, Thanjavur was the capital of the medieval Chola empire and remained influential under subsequent dynasties. The Brihadeeswarar Temple, constructed by Rajaraja Chola I and completed in 1010 CE, stands as a hallmark of Chola architecture. Its monumental vimana and sculptural richness exemplify the era’s religious and architectural achievements. In 1987, the temple was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the Great Living Chola Temples.

Cultural life in Thanjavur centers on music, dance, and visual arts. The city is associated with Thanjavur painting, a sumptuous school of painting known for vibrant colors and raised gold foil. It also has a strong Carnatic music heritage. The Thanjavur Palace complex houses the Saraswathi Mahal Library, one of India’s oldest libraries, with a collection of palm-leaf manuscripts and printed volumes.

Today, Thanjavur remains an agricultural hub in the Cauvery delta, particularly for rice, alongside industry and tourism. Visitors come to the temples, libraries, and museums, and to experience traditional crafts, cuisine, and the rich legacy of the city.