| Title | मिट्टी की खपरैलें (Clay Roof Tiles)Rare Miṭṭī kī khapraileṃ Clay Roof Tiles |
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| Description | Miṭṭī kī khaprail (clay roof tiles), also known as *gramya khaprailein* (rural tiles) and *maṇ ōṭukaḷ* in Tamil, are terracotta [1] roofing components integral to Indic heritage architecture. These ceramic materials, traditionally sourced from alluvial clay deposits across the Indian subcontinent, were extensively used during the Chola and Chera dynasties. The geological origin of the clay influences the tile's final properties. Processing involves shaping, drying, and firing at temperatures between 900-1100°C, resulting in a density of 1800-2000 kg/m³ and compressive strength of 20-30 MPa. Water absorption ranges from 10-20%. Durability depends on clay composition and firing process. Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful matching of original *mṛttikā* (clay) sources and firing techniques. Restoration often requires crafting new tiles using traditional methods to maintain aesthetic and structural integrity. The tiles serve as a testament to ancient Indian craftsmanship. |
| Also Known As | Clay Roof Tiles Miṭṭī kī khapraileṃ Clay Tiles Roof Tiles Earthen Tiles Terracotta Roof Tiles खपरैल मिट्टी की टाइलें ग्राम्य टाइलें ग्राम्य खपरैलें மண் ஓடுகள் (Maṇ ōṭukaḷ) మట్టి పెంకులు (Maṭṭi peṅkulū) ಮಣ್ಣಿನ ಹೆಂಚುಗಳು (Maṇṇina hen̄cugaḷu) മൺ череടുകൾ (Maṇ cērēṭukaḷ) |
| Tags | Clay roof tile Terracotta tile Roofing material Traditional building material |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-958601822-20-11-25-MS |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/clay-roof-tiles |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/clay-roof-tiles |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 0 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Ceramic Terracotta |
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| Regions | Kerala Tamil Nadu Karnataka West Bengal |
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| Time Periods | Ancient Medieval |
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| Dynasties | Chola Chera |
| Sources | Local clay pits |
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| Properties | Density: 1800-2000 kg/m³ Compressive strength: 20-30 MPa Water absorption: 10-20% Firing temperature: 900-1100°C |
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| Uses | Roofing for residential buildings Roofing for temples |
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| Materials | Wood Lime Mortar |
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| Styles | Kerala architecture Bengal architecture |
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| Categories | Temple House |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Building Materials of India | Book | Clay tile manufacturing |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shri Guruvayurappan Temple UAE | Secondary | Roof | 100% |