Existence of the golden ratio in Tanjavur Brihadeeshwarar temple


World Heritage Site: Great Living Chola Temples

Publication Year: 2020

Publication Type: Article

Publication Identifier: WHEF122EC007D

Summary

A mathematical analysis of the Tanjavur Brihadeeshwarar temple, a UNESCO-listed 11th-century Dravida temple in southern India, reveals the presence of the golden ratio (Phi) in its structural design. This finding underscores the temple's architectural sophistication and its adherence to mathematically precise proportions, a hallmark of Chola temple construction. Researchers employed Phi Grid and Phi Spiral software to measure and verify these ratios within the temple's prakaram (enclosing structure), demonstrating how ancient architects integrated advanced mathematical principles into their designs. The study highlights the enduring influence of the golden ratio in architecture, bridging historical craftsmanship with modern scientific validation.

Citation

Velmurugan, C., Kalaivanan, R.,. (2020). Existence of the golden ratio in Tanjavur Brihadeeshwarar temple. Open Journal of Mathematical Sciences, 4(1), 211–219. https://doi.org/10.30538/oms2020.0112

You are here:
World Heritage Explorer > World Heritage Research > Publications > Existence of the golden ratio in Tanjavur Brihadeeshwarar temple

This website includes data sources licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Additional original content by World Heritage Explorer, also licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. WHE is not affiliated with UNESCO or the World Heritage Committee. Legal Notice. Privacy Policy.

Open Data for an Open World