Tamil Nadu has a rich history. It is a terrific place for archeological significance. The state has a history of various civilizations, which are kept alive through the state’s temples, churches, palaces, forts, and monuments. The Department of Archaeology protects 88 monuments in Tamil Nadu to preserve its regional history. The monuments feature historical inscriptions and are high in artistic and architectural value. They reflect the state’s heritage. They are a treasure house of information needed to rebuild the history of Tamil Nadu.

Two Famous Archeological Places in Tamil Nadu

Panch Rathas

The Panch Rathas are located in Mahabalipuram. They are breath taking monolith shrines. Each is dedicated to each of the five Pandavas from the Mahabharata. A striking feature of each shrine is that it is carved out of one whole block of pink granite. The shrines were created by King Narasimhavarman, his son, and King Mahendravarman – Pallavan kings. Panch Rathas is a World Heritage Site. They exist since the 7th century and have stood the test of time. However, the Rathas have become a bit worn out. They are a fine example of Pallavan rock-cut architectural style.

As tourists enter Panch Rathas complex, they find Draupadi’s Ratha shaped like a hut to the right. It is also dedicated to Goddess Durga. Next is Arjuna’s Ratha. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. In front of it is Nakula’s and Sahadev’s Ratha. They feature several artistic sculptures of elephants. Bhima’s Ratha is the biggest one. It features sculptures of lions around it and carved on the Ratha’s pillars. The other end of the complex features Yudhistra’s Ratha. He was the eldest of the Pandavas.

Dolmen Circle

Dolmen Circle is a significant historical site that throws important insights into the life of the pre-historic people. Historical reports say that Dolmens were hideouts for the ancient people. According to reports, instead of hiding themselves, people hid their belongings there. Dolmen Circle is from 5000 BC. Only two Dolmen structures are in existence in India today.

Famous Museums in Tamil Nadu

There are about 60 museums in the state. Some of the famous ones include Royal Palace Museum and Archeological Museum in Thanjavur, Government Museum in Kanyakumari, Railway Museum in Chennai, Flora & Fauna Museum in Kodaikanal, APJ Abdul Kalam Museum in Rameswaram, Dakshinachitra Museum in Chengalpet, Gandhi Museum in Madurai, and Wax Museum and the Tea Factory in Ooty.

Tourists can also find Government Museum in Tiruchirappalli, GD Naidu Museum in Gandhipuram, and Government Museum & Art Gallery in Ooty.

Famous Monuments in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has more than 40 monuments. Tsunami Memorial erected on the south shore of Kanyakumari is a great tourist attraction. Next is Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanyakumari. It is a place to be for photographers, history buffs, and nature lovers. The place also offers Gandhi Memorial and Gandhi Mandapam. Ooty in the Nilgiri Hills of Tamil Nadu is also a great place offering the state’s rich history and culture. Chennai, too, has a number of interesting monuments such as Wellesley House, Ripon Building, Madras High Court, Bharathiyar Illam, and more.

Famous Forts and Palaces in Tamil Nadu

Tourists who wish to soak themselves in the rich heritage of Tamil Nadu must visit Manjore Fort in Thanjavur, Udayagiri Fort in Thiruvanthanpuram, Vattakottai Fort in Kanyakumari, Droog Fort in Conoor, Vellore Fort in Vellore, St. George Fort in Chennai, and more.

Sites like Tanjore Royal Palace and Sangeeta Mahal in Thanjavur, Thirumalai Nayak Mahal in Madurai, Padmanabhapuram Palace in Kanyakumari, and more enrich visitors with their grandeur and rich heritage. Each place has a history of its own.

Famous Statues in Tamil Nadu

Statues connote history of a place. Each artistically carved structure tells a tale, which, in turn, unfolds the culture of Tamil Nadu. A prominent statue that draws visitors towards them is Thiruvalluvar statue near Vivekananda Puram in Kanyakumari.  Other eminent statues are Gandhi statue, Rajiv Gandhi statue, King George statue, Annie Besant statue, and Gu Pope statue. They are all in Chennai.