Intertwined heritage: The Tirumayam fort and the twin temples of Siva & Vishnu rock-cut shrines
Author(s): R Poorana Chandra and G Kasthuri Thilagam
Abstract: Tirumayam, a historic town in Tamil Nadu, is home to an architectural ensemble that seamlessly blends spirituality and military strategy. The Tirumayam Fort, a 17th-century structure built under the rule of the Sethupathi Kings, stands as a testament to the region's strategic significance. Within its vicinity lie the twin rock-cut temples of Shiva and Vishnu, showcasing Dravidian craftsmanship and religious syncretism. These temples, adorned with intricate sculptures and inscriptions, reflect the artistic and cultural evolution of the region. This study explores the historical and architectural significance of Tirumayam’s fortifications and sacred shrines, analyzing their role in Tamil heritage. Through an in-depth examination of the site’s structural elements, iconography, and historical narratives, this manuscript sheds light on Tirumayam’s unique position as both a center of defense and devotion.
R Poorana Chandra, G Kasthuri Thilagam. Intertwined heritage: The Tirumayam fort and the twin temples of Siva & Vishnu rock-cut shrines. Int J Hist 2025;7(12):80-84. DOI: 10.22271/27069109.2025.v7.i12b.593
