Vadakunnathan Temple, South Gate
|
The town is built an a rising
ground on the apex of which is the oldest and largest temple complex in
the state, the Vadakunnathan temple complex, famous since the 8th century
AD. Its boundaries are defined by a thick and lofty masonry wall with massive
pagoda shaped gateways on all the four sides that provide a marvelous backdrop
of the pageantry of the famous Trichur puram festival, held
in April-May every year. Outside the wall is an open ground which was once
a dense teak forest and hence it is known as Tekkinkadu (teak forest).
The temple and the surrounding open area measuring about 3.6 hectares are
encircled by a wide circular road called the Swaraj Round. Highways radiate
from this focal point in all directions.
The temple has three sanctum sanctorum, dedicated
to Lord Shiva as Vadakunathan, Sri Sankaranarayanan and Sri Rama, installed
by Parasurama according to the legend. Exquisite adorn, paintings and sculptures
adorn the walls of the temple. |
