The Chola monarch Raja Raja (r. 985–1014) constructed a temple in the southern Indian city of Tanjore about the year 1000 B.C.E.
The temple is devoted to Shiva in his incarnation as Brhadeshvar (the "big lord").
It was constructed in the Dravida style, which is characterized by low-rise structures that span a large area and are encircled by a boundary wall with enormous towers (gopurams) above each wall's central entrance.
The Brhadeshvar temple is well-known as a hub for traditional arts and culture, especially for the Bharatanatyam dance form.
It also has some outstanding murals, which is a rare feature in Indian temples.
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