Early Tamil Epigraphy: From the Earliest Times to the Sixth Century A.D. c20.s14.t4.1

c20.s14.t4.1

Kodumanal is now a small village situated on the north bank of the river Noyyal in Perundurai Taluk, Erode District. It was, however, a major industrial and trading centre during the Caṅkam Age and was noted for its manufacture of jewellery from semi-precious stones. It is referred to in Caṅkam literature by its older name *koṭumaṇam*.⁷ It is significant that the site is located just across the river from Padiyur known in antiquity for the export of beryl (aquamarine) stones to Rome. The site is strategically situated commanding the trade routes from the west coast via the Palghat Gap and onward to Karur, Madurai and the east coast. The importance of the site was recognised from surface collection of gems, terracotta figures and ancient pottery.