History of Indian and Eastern Architecture v1.c19.s12.23

v1.c19.s12.23

The city and temple fell to the Muhammadans in 1324, who plundered it mercilessly, and it was only recovered by the Vijayanagar sovereign in 1372 when Hindû worship was restored. The temple itself certainly owes all its magnificence to Tirumalai Nâyyak, A.D. 1623-1659, or to his elder brother, Muttu Vîrappa, who preceded him, and who built the Mînâkshî Nâyyak mantapam, said to be the oldest thing now existing, outside the shrines. The Kalyâna mantapam is said to have been built in A.D. 1707, and the Tatta Suddhi in 1770. These, however, are insignificant parts compared with those which owe their origin to Tirumalai Nâyyak.