Foundation of Gangaikondacholapuram by Rajendra Chola I
After defeating the Palas, Rajendra Chola I, the great Chola king, built the city of Gangaikondacholapuram.

Significance of Gangaikondacholapuram
- Gangaikondacholapuram was established as the capital of the Chola Empire by Rajendra Chola I.
- The city was built to commemorate his victory over the Palas and to showcase the power and wealth of the Chola dynasty.
- The name "Gangaikondacholapuram" translates to "the city of the Chola who conquered the Ganges," symbolizing the vast extent of his conquests.

Architecture and Layout
- The city was designed on a grand scale, with a central temple dedicated to Lord Shiva as the focal point.
- The temple, known as the Brihadeeswarar Temple, was built in the same architectural style as the famous Brihadeeswarar Temple in Thanjavur.
- The city also featured a palace complex, water tanks, granaries, and other administrative buildings, showcasing the Chola's advanced urban planning skills.

Cultural and Religious Importance
- Gangaikondacholapuram became a center of culture, art, and religion under the Chola rule.
- The Brihadeeswarar Temple attracted pilgrims and devotees from far and wide, making it a significant religious site in South India.
- The city's architecture and sculptures reflected the artistic and architectural achievements of the Chola dynasty.

Lingering Legacy
- Despite the decline of the Chola Empire, Gangaikondacholapuram continued to be a prominent city in the region for centuries.
- Today, the ruins of the city stand as a testament to the grandeur and glory of the Chola dynasty, attracting tourists and history enthusiasts from around the world.