Dravidian architecture is of indigenous origin and advanced over time by a process of evolution. The earliest examples of the Tamil Dravidian architectural tradition were the 7th century rock-cut shrines at Mahabalipuram. Scholars attribute the absence of monuments in South India before the 7th century to temples having been built in wood, which were eventually destroyed by forces of nature. This chapter traces the contribution of the Pallavas, Pandyas, Cholas, Vijayanagara and Nayak rulers to temple art in Tamil Nadu.
1. Evolution of Temple Architecture – Five Stages
| Stage | Epoch | Period |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Pallava Epoch | A.D. 600 to 850 |
| 2 | Early Chola Epoch | A.D. 850 to 1100 |
| 3 | Later Chola Epoch | A.D. 1100 to 1350 |
| 4 | Vijayanagara/Nayak Epoch | A.D. 1350 to 1600 |
| 5 | Modern Epoch | After A.D. 1600 |