The Rock Fort
temple complex in Tiruchirappalli is a conglomeration of three
temples - the Manikka Vinayaka temple at the foot of the hill,
the Uchhi Pillayar Koyil at the top of the hill and the
Taayumaanava Koyil (Shivastalam) on the hill. This Shivastalam
is a rock cut temple on a hill in the most prominent landmark in
Tiruchirappalli (Trichy); reached by a flight of steps on the
way to the famous Ucchi Pillaya temple.
This temple crowns a massive outcrop of rock, that soars 83
metres upwards, from the surrounding plains. It is reached by a
steep flight of 437 steps, cut into the rock. Halfway up is the
Sri Thayumanaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. It has a
100-pillared hall, and a Vimana, covered with gold. On the
southern face of the rock, are several beautifully carved,
rock-cut cave temples, of the Pallava period. Non - Hindus are
not allowed into the sanctum sanctorum, at the summit. Built by
the Nayaks, who were the founders of the city, it was one of the
main centres, around which, the wars of the Carnatic were fought
in the 18th century, during the British - French struggle for
supremacy in India.
About The Temple
This shrine houses Kangaala Moorthy, one of the 64
manifestations of Shiva. The approach to the temple is through a
flight of covered stairs. Towards the end of the climb, the
Tayumanavar temple is towards the west and the Uchipillayar
temple towards the east.
History
Tiruchirappalli itself has a long history, going back to the
centuries before the Christian era, when it was a Chola citadel.
The Pandyas and Pallavas held sway over the region for short
periods. In the 12th century, Cholas were subverted by the
Vijayanagar kings of Hampi, who proudly withstood the invading
Muslims. Less than fifty years later, the Nayaks of Madurai came
to power, constructed the Rock Fort, and firmly established
Tiruchirappalli as the trading city.
Festivals
Six worship services are offered each day here. This well
endowed temple celebrates the annual Brahmotsavam in Chithirai.
Aadi Pooram and the float festival in Panguni are also of
significance here.
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