Vadakunnathan Temple, South Gate
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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 püram
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. |
