| Title | Early Dravidian architecture styleRare |
|---|---|
| Description | Early Dravidian architecture, prevalent in South India, is marked by its emphasis on square plans, pyramidal vimanas, and elaborate gopurams, often constructed from granite. |
| Also Known As | Kalinga Architecture Fortification Defensive walls moats gateways Mayamata Shilpa Shastra Vastu Shastra Early Dravidian Architecture Mauryan Architecture Buddhist monastic architecture Early medieval Hindu temple architecture |
| Tags | Vimana Gopuram Dravida Temple South India |
| Style ID | INHF-STY-2310871852-08:43:02:01:04:19:EDAS |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/early-dravidian-architecture-style |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/early-dravidian-architecture-style |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 0 |
| Created | November 19, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 29, 2025 |
External References
Regions
| Regions | Tamil Nadu Karnataka Andhra Pradesh Kerala |
|---|
Historical Context
| Time Periods | 6th century CE 9th century CE |
|---|---|
| Dynasties | Pallava dynasty Early Chola dynasty |
Sacred Context
| Sacred Contexts | Hindu temples |
|---|---|
| Associated Deities | Shiva Vishnu Shakti |
Architectural Details
| Primary Materials | Granite |
|---|---|
| Architectural Features | Vimana Gopuram Mandapa Garbhagriha Dvarapala |
Keywords
| Keywords | Vimana Gopuram Dravida Temple South India |
|---|
Recommended Sources
| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) | Book | General overview of Dravidian architecture. |
Heritage Sites (1)
| Site Name | Status | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Sisupalgarh Fort Bhubaneswar | Secondary | 100% |
See Also
Related Materials
Granite
Related Features
Vimana
Gopuram
Mandapa
Garbhagriha
Dvarapala
Example Sites
How to Identify Early Dravidian architecture style
- Look for characteristic features: Vimana, Gopuram, Mandapa.
- Verify geographic location: Early Dravidian architecture style architecture is typically found in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
- Examine construction materials: Early Dravidian architecture style typically uses Granite.
- Consider historical context: This style dates from 6th century CE.
- Compare with documented examples: 1 heritage sites use this architectural style.