800-YEAR-OLD RAMAPPA TEMPLE GETS UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE TAG; KNOW ALL ABOUT IT
Telangana's Ramappa Temple, also known as the Rudreshwar Temple, has just received UNESCO World Heritage Site tag. The decision was taken during the 44th session of the World Heritage Committee of UNESCO on July 25. As per the reports, this 13th century architectural marvel was proposed by the Indian Government as its only nomination for the UNESCO World Heritage Site tag.
Reportedly, 17 countries backed the nomination.
All about Ramappa Temple
Known for its delicate work and exquisite craftsmanship, Ramappa Temple gives us a glimpse of technical know-how and materials of its time. While the lower part of the temple comprises red sandstone, its foundation is built with the ‘sandbox technique’, and the pillars include basalt. Built with light bricks that reportedly float on water, this temple is a sight to behold.
About the temple complex
This temple displays a distinct style, decoration, and technology that exhibit the influence of the Kakatiyan sculptor. The temple stands on a 6 ft star-shaped platform, and is adorned with intricate carvings. The temple was named after Rammapa, who was the chief sculptor; as per the records, it’s the only temple in the country that is known by its sculptor’s name. If records are to go by, it took around 40 years to build this temple.
Its location
It is located in the village of Palampet, which is approximately 200 km north-east of Hyderabad. The temple is a Sivalayam, where Lord Ramalingeswara is worshipped. Marco Polo, during his visit to the Kakatiya Empire, apparently called the Ramappa Temple as the brightest star in the galaxy of temples.
How to reach?
There are no direct buses from Warangal to Ramappa Temple. You can, however, hop aboard a bus to Mulug, from where you can take a bus to Palampet. It will take you till the entrance of the temple from where you can take an autorickshaw to the temple, which lies around 2 km away from the entrance.