historical places

Madurai Meenakshi Amman Temple – Whenever Madurai is talked about, the first thing that comes to people’s mind is Meenakshi Amman temple here – a Hindu temple dedicated to goddess Meenakshi Amman. It is the city’s most popular landmark – and also one of India’s most ancient and popular temples.

• Aayiram Kaal Mandapam – Translated to “Hall of Thousand Pillars” – it is as the name suggests, a hall/fort that has thousand pillars, built in 1569 AD (a monument from the Pandian era/dynasty).
• Thirumalai Nayagar Mahal – A 17th century palace/durbar hall with majestic pillars; this Mahal (hall) belonged to by King Tirumala Nayaka, a king of Nayaka dynasty under whose rule Madurai was during the time, and was built in 1636 AD.
• St. Mary’s Cathedral – Also called the Church of Our Lady of Dolours, this is a cathedral in Madurai that was constructed in 1841 by the New Madurai Mission (originated from Portuguese colonization of Goa).

Other ancient and popular temples in Madurai, that are a must-visit include:

• Koodal Azhagar Temple
• Kallazhagar Temple
• Azhagar Kovil Temple
• Vandiyur Mariamman Teppakkulam
• Narasingam Yoga Narasimha Perumal Temple
• Sri Mavoottru Velappar Temple
• Tirupparam Kunram Murugan Temple