Great Temples of Tamil Nadu 2

Sri Ekambaranathar temple, a very ancient and sacred temple of worship, is also considered a big treasure of art and architecture, attracting a large number of pilgrims from over the world. The four reputed Tamil Saivite saints Thirugnana Sambandhar, Appar, Sundarar and Manikkavasagar, also known as the four divine saint-singers or Naalvar, have sung in praise of the glory of Lord Sri Ekambaranathar. This one of 275 paadal petra sthalams or Thirumurai temples. Ekambaranathar temple is also one of the Pancha (five) Bhootha Sthalams, and it represents Earth. The raja gopuram, measuring 59 metres, is one of the tallest in south India. The Ayiram kaal mandapam, a hall of a thousand pillars, is a special feature of the temple.