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Seven Pagodas of Mahabalipuram
12.6167° N, 80.2000° E
About
"Seven Pagodas" has served as a nickname for the southern Indian city of Mamallapuram, also called Mahabalipuram (old name), since the first European explorers reached it. The phrase "Seven Pagodas" refers to a belief that has circulated in India, Europe, and other parts of the world for over eleven centuries. The group of Monuments at Mahabalipuram, including the Shore Temple built in the 8th century under the reign of Narasimhavarman II, stand at the shore of the Bay of Bengal. Legend has it that six other temples once stood with it.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Mahendravarman I begins cave temples
c. 600 CE
Narasimharavarman I urban works
c. 630 CE
End of ratha and cave construction
c. 640 CE
Shore Temple erected
8th century
Marco Polo map notation
1275
Late 18th-century European excavations
late 18th century
Goldingham account
1798
Southey poem mentions pagodas
1810
Carr compilation
1869
Coombes essay on pagoda origins
1914
Underwater survey finds masonry
2002
2004 tsunami exposure
2004
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
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