Patteeswaraswami Temple is regarded as one of the best in terms of architecture and sculptural splendour. Dedicated to Shiva, this is a temple of great religious significance.
Antiquity: the temple dates back to the 1st century BC. The innermost shrine was built by Karikal Chola. The Chola kings from 11th through 13th centuries made several endowments to this temple. The Hoysalas and the Vijayanagar emperors also contributed to its development.
Architecture: This temple has several towers and mandapams with ornate pillars. The Golden Hall with the Golden image of Nataraja - the cosmic dancer here is known for its beauty. Ten pillars have various forms of Shiva carved on them. The roof has a series of stone chains.
Other temples here include the Pattivinayakar temple dedicated to Ganesha, the Arasambalavanar temple dedicated to Shiva, it is located on the spot where Shiva danced under a peepul tree. The North and South Kailasam temples guard the two directions of the temple.
There are sacred trees associated with the temple - the Palm and Tamarind trees are called Irava Panai (The deathless Palm) and Pirava Puli (The unborn tamarind).
