Brahmeshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar
* Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
* Built: 10th century CE
* Deity: Shiva
* Architecture: Orissan temple architecture
* UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes (1984)
The Brahmeswara Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Shiva located in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India. It was built in the 10th century CE and is one of the most important examples of Orissan temple architecture. The temple is a square structure with a spire rising to a height of 54 meters. The walls of the temple are decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key features of the Brahmeswara Temple:
* The temple is built on a high platform.
* The main shrine is dedicated to Shiva.
* The temple has a spire rising to a height of 54 meters.
* The walls of the temple are decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures.
* The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Significance of the Brahmeswara Temple:
The Brahmeswara Temple is one of the most important examples of Orissan temple architecture. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is a popular tourist destination. The temple is also a place of pilgrimage for Hindus.
Architecture
Brahmeshwara Temple, Bhubaneswar
* Architecture
* Built in the 11th century CE, the Brahmeswara Temple is a fine example of Odisha's Kalinga architecture.
* The temple is constructed of sandstone and is square in plan, with a spire rising to a height of 54 meters.
* The temple is richly decorated with sculptures of gods, goddesses, and mythological figures.
* The main entrance to the temple is on the east side, and is flanked by two smaller shrines.
* The interior of the temple is divided into three chambers, the sanctum sanctorum, the antechamber, and the ardha-mandapa.
* The sanctum sanctorum houses a Shiva lingam, the object of worship in the temple.
* The antechamber contains a statue of Shiva as Nataraja, the dancing god.
* The ardha-mandapa is a large open hall that is used for religious ceremonies.
* History
* The Brahmeswara Temple was built by King Jajati Keshari of the Somavamsi dynasty.
* The temple was damaged by an earthquake in the 16th century CE, but was later restored.
* The temple is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India.
* Significance
* The Brahmeswara Temple is one of the most important Hindu temples in Odisha.
* The temple is a popular pilgrimage destination for Hindus from all over India.
* The temple is also a popular tourist destination, and is visited by thousands of tourists each year.