Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods) c43.42

c43.42

The entrance portico leading to the temple proper is a finished architectural conception in itself, but none the less it composes with and forms an appropriate contribution to the scheme as a whole. The facade consists of an elaborate storied structure breaking effectively the long lines of the arcaded enclosure, which, with its corridors and corner towers forms the outer perimeter of the entire composition. Interiorly the portico resolves itself into a square plan of pillared halls with two diametrical corridors crossing the rectangle of the central space leaving four open courtyards, one in each angle. These entrance halls are symmetrically grouped on the wide raised terrace, the first of three such courts which, superimposed serve the important purpose of elevating the monumental pile of the main structure above its surroundings. In the open parts of this terrace on each side of the entrance halls small detached shrines have been placed, recalling the *panchayatana*, or five shrine planning of some of the temples of India.