Ancient temple discovered in TN

Kancheepuram, Apr 7 (UNI) Archaeologists have unearthed the remains of a 1,800-year-old Murugan Temple at Mamallapuram near here.

The temple was discovered by a team of experts of the Archaeology Society of India (ASI) in Chennai led by its Superintendent Sathyabhama after one and a half years of work.

It began when the team stumbled upon a small rock near the seaside at Salavankuppam leading to the discovery of a cave.

Further research led to the eight century limestone and brick structure. The experts found poojas were performed in the temple till the 13th century.

Sangam period tiles, sculptures, lamps, 'Nandi' and 'kalasams' were also found in the temple remains.

The temple had a 'mahamandapam' and two wells. It also had construction material like limestone in its 'prakara.' An inscription showed the temple was built in eight century in a place called 'Thiruvizhichur.' A beautifully crafted 'vel' (spear) was found in the front portion of the temple.

Usually temples were built using metal, wood and bricks but for the first time, it had been built with bricks and limestone. The clay Nandi is another speciality as usually it was carved out of stone, according to Ms Sathyabhama.

UNI