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INTRODUCTION
Madurai, located in southern Tamil
Nadu is the second largest city in the state and an
important cultural and commercial centre. Located on
the River Vaigai, it is a city with an ancient past. It
is over 2500 years old and was a seat of learning in
the Sangam period. Legend has it that when the Pandyan
king was about to name his new city, Lord Shiva
appeared and the drops of nectar falling from his locks
gave the city its name - Madhurapuri.
Today, Madurai is noted for its
splendid temple to the goddess Meenakshi and its
imposing gopurams soar over the city. The temple, the
centre of social and religious activity, attracts
thousands of visitors each year. It is noted for its
marvelous hall of a thousand pillars - all of which are
elaborately sculpted. A set of musical pillars carved
out of a single block of granite that emit melodic
notes when tapped, splendid mandrops and a large temple
tank are all part of the huge complex.
The Thirumalai Nayak Palace, which
was built in the Indo-Saracenic style by the Nayak
rulers of Madurai in 1636 AD, is worth visiting.
Traditional crafts are still
created here in age old fashion and Madurai is noted
for its fine handloom fabrics and beautiful brass
lamps.
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