This erstwhile capital of the Chola Kings, this small town of Thanjavur is famous today for its beautifully architectured temples and the amazing bronze works it creates. It is centre for the classical arts like dance and music.
According to a legend this temple town was named after a demon called Thanjan, who was slayed here and the Gods granted his last wish of naming the town after him. Thanjavur came into prominence only during the reign of the Chola Kings. There are as many as 74 temples in this town each having its own charateristics. The architecture and the paintings of Thanjavur were encouraged by the Chola Kings.
