Thanjavur Royal Palace

The Palace, on the east main street is a series of large and rambling buildings of fine masonry, built partly by the Nayaks around 1532-1675 AD) and partly by the Marathas (1676-1855). The entrance is by way of a large quandrangular courtyard. The encircling walls are pierced by big gateways to the north and east. The courtyard leads to a many-pillared hall. Madamaligai is the tower which rises from the palace roof beyond the Goodagopuram. It has six storeys. This many storeyed tower was destroyed by lightning and was subsequently repaired and preserved. The Sangita Mahal or the Music Hall is a miniature of the surviving court of Thirumalai Nayak’s. Art Gallery The art gallery has a fabulous collection of bronze icons, stone sculpture and pieces of art. The Collection is unique for its representation of Hindu gods and goddesses, myths and legends. The exhibits are priceless for their historical association.