Thirumalai Nayak palace - Tamilnadu
The Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal is a striking example of the Nayakar Dynasty's architectural genius and majesty, standing tall amid the busy city of Madurai. Constructed during the 17th century by Thirumalai Nayakar the Nayakar king, this expansive palace complex is a harmonious blend of elaborate sculptures, soaring pillars, and imposing chambers. It is the most popular tourist attraction in Madurai which is a must-visit for tourist with different travel desires. This area is breathtaking for history buffs and those who appreciate fine culture. Attending the light and sound performances in the evening is doubly seductive. It's thought that the king hired an Italian architect to create the palace's design. Beautiful statues and paintings decorate the palace's interior. There's something unique about the artwork on the roof. The enormous central courtyard, the dancing hall, and the majestic pillars will enchant you. The Swarga vilasam and Ranga vilasam are the two portions of the palace. Admire the stately homes, gardens, ponds, and such features. Here is the intact Nayakar king's ornate throne. A gallery, enormous round columns, and stone ribs are a few of this palace's best characteristics. The historical damage this palace has sustained over centuries shows just how strong it is. This is currently under the Archaeology Department's protection.
History of Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal
The Nayakars ruled the kingdom of Madurai from 1545 until the 1740s. Thirumalai Nayakar's reign lasted from 1623 until 1659. He was one of Madurai's greatest kings and made a significant contribution to the city's infrastructure. In order to build Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal, it is thought that he hired an Italian architect. The structure was negatively impacted by weather, conflict, and other types of devastation over time. In order to construct his palace, the grandson of King Thirumalai Nayakar destroyed the majority of the building and took off all of the gems and woodwork sculptures. Later, Lord Napier, the ruler of Madras from 1866 to 1872, repaired the building. The primary goal in building this palace was to create the most opulent building in all of the South Indian dynasties. This palace has lavish ornamentation throughout, both inside and out. The magnificent stucco work on the palace's arches and domes is evident. It displays a multitude of architectural marvels, from the enormous pillars to the overall, imposing structure. This magnificent palace has 248 pillars in all. Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal also offers a stunning light and sound performance for visitors to experience.
Architecture of Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal
The structure of Thirumalai Nayakar Palace is the grandest structure in South India since its construction. The monument depicts a fusion of Dravidian and Islamic styles of architecture. The original structure of the palace was four times what can be seen today. During the 18th century, many structures that were a part of the palace were taken down. It is widely known for its giant pillars, which reach up to 82 feet in height and 19 feet in width. On entering, the visitors can see the huge central courtyard, which is surrounded by circular pillars and a circular garden. The palace is divided into two sections, known as Swarga Vilasam and Ranga Vilasam. The dancing hall and the patio are the palace's main draws. The palace's entire construction was built using foliated brickwork, and shell lime, also known as chunnam, was used to create the glossy, smooth stucco. Pavilions with gold coverings and finials on top may be seen on either side of the courtyard. Numerous individuals have been enticed to film their movies and music videos at this palace due to its amazing architecture. The palanquin palace, royal bandstand, royal dwelling, theater, pond, garden, shrine, apartments, armory, dancing hall, and quarters are a few of the main architectural elements of the palace.
Speciality of Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal -
The typical combination of Dravidian and Rajput architectural forms can be seen in this splendid palace located in Madurai.
How to reach Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal -
By Air- Madurai airport is the nearest to reach Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal covering 10 Km
By Train – Madurai railway station is the nearest junction to reach Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal covering 4 Km
By Road - Driving to Madurai via NH85 and East Masi Street is the best way to reach Thirumalai Nayakar Mahal covering 2Km