The Brahadeeswarar Temple, called the big temple is dedicated Lord Shiva. It is an outstanding example of Chola architecture. UNESCO has declared it a World Heritage Monument. The 64.8 mts. tall tower over the sanctum is testimony to the engineering skill of the Chola. In keeping with the size of the temple, it has a gigantic “Mahalingam” in the shrine, measuring 4 mts. in height. Beautiful Choal fresco paintings adorn the inner walls of the temple. The Chola architects conceptualized the construction in such a way that the shadow of the cupola never falls on the ground.