- Introduction:
The Sun Temple in Konark exhibits the traditional Odisha style of architecture, also known as Kalinga architecture. Nestled on the east coast of the Bay of Bengal, the Sun Temple in Konark is one of the most spectacular sights that await you in Odisha. In the 13th century temple got designed as a colossal ornamented stone chariot led by seven stone horses and dedicated to the Sun God Surya. The Sun Temple is an incredible masterpiece of architecture. That attracts tourists, historians, and archaeologists from all over the world. The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is Also known as Surya Devalaya, Black Pagoda. Today, the Sun Temple of Konark stands as the finest example of the architectural brilliance of a bygone era.
- Architectural facts behind the Konark Sun Temple:
- 1: Konark has two Sanskrit words Kona (corner or angle) and arka (the sun). It thus implies that the main deity was the sun god, and the temple has an angular format
- 2: Konark Sun Temple has constructed by the great architect Bishu Maharana
- 3: The Konarak temple represents the fulfilment and finality of the Orissan architectural movement
- 4: It is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage site
- 5: Geometrical patterns and carved with 12 wheels to serve as sundials
- 6: Temple architecture, complete with a colossal structure, sculptures, and artwork on myriad themes
- 7: The Konarak temple was built entirely in stone
- 8: The 12 pairs of wheels represent the 12 months of the year
India is a country with diverse cultures, traditions, and architectural styles. Like no other country in the world, since nearly 4000 years ago, India has developed an incredibly rich heritage that captivates several religious and artistic influences.The roots of Indian architecture are embedded, in its history and culture. There exist several styles and traditions in Indian architecture, and the best known for their intricacies are the contrasting styles of Hindu temple architecture and Indo-Islamic architecture. The history in the Architecture of India is so deeply rooted in the culture and regions that it reflects the stories of that era very meticulously in the carvings of the structures. Indian Architecture, with an extensive context in earlier styles, teleports you to an epoch of ancient mysteries and masterpieces all over the country. Konark sun temple is an example of one of those masterpieces. It is the inspiration for modern architects who can take most of it.
