Temple on the Seashore, Mahavellipore (Shore Temple, Mamallapuram)

This photograph by Francis Frith (1822-1898) & Co is of the Shore Temple of Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) in the present state of Tamil Nadu.

Mamallapuram occupies an important place in the cultural and historical landscape of India due to the rich presence of ancient caves, temples, and rock-cut structures. The Shore Temple was built during the reign of the Pallava ruler Narasimhavarman II (700-728 CE). The temple owes its name to the location – situated on Mamallapuram shore, overlooking the Bay of Bengal.

The temple edifice has been damaged by the sea winds due to its proximity to the sea, but it remains a great example of Pallava architecture.

To read more on Temple Architecture, click here.