Question 1

What is लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone)?

Accepted Answer

लैटेराइट शिला (Laiterāiṭa Shilā), also known as लाल पत्थर (lāl pathar - red stone) or धातुरूप पाषाण (dhāturūpa pāṣāṇa - metallic rock), is a weathered, iron-rich sedimentary rock extensively used in Indic heritage architecture [1]. Originating from intense laterization, its composition includes goethite (α-FeOOH), hematite (Fe₂O₃), and kaolinite (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄), contributing to its characteristic reddish-brown color and high iron oxide content [2]. Density ranges from 1.4-2.9 g/cm³, with compressive strength varying significantly (1-50 MPa) based on induration [3]. Traditional quarrying methods across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala provided material for load-bearing walls, foundations, and well linings. The Vijayanagara Empire, Kadamba Dynasty, and Portuguese colonial architecture prominently feature laterite. High porosity (30-65%) and permeability necessitate careful conservation strategies, including consolidation and water management, to mitigate weathering in heritage sites. Understanding its physical and chemical properties is crucial for effective restoration of structures built during the Medieval and Early Modern periods [4].

Question 2

What type of material is लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone)?

Accepted Answer

लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) is classified as Sedimentary Rock, Metamorphic Rock, Weathered Rock, Iron-rich Rock. Key properties include Compressive strength: 1-50 MPa (variable), Porosity: 30-65%, Density: 1.4-2.9 g/cm³.

Question 3

Where is लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) used?

Accepted Answer

लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) is commonly used in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Odisha, Tamil Nadu. It is sourced from Ratnagiri quarries, Coastal Maharashtra deposits, Coastal Goa quarries.

Question 4

How is लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) is used for Load-bearing walls, Foundation stones, Well lining, Retaining walls, Exterior cladding, Wall cladding, Well construction, Road construction, Foundation Fill, Compound walls, Plinth construction in heritage architecture. It is found in 3 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) requires attention to Susceptible to erosion and Requires breathable lime-based coatings. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone) 4.5/5(Based on 3 heritage sites) Rare Laiṭerāiṭa Śilā Laterite Stone 4.5/5(Based on 3 heritage sites)
Description	लैटेराइट शिला (Laiterāiṭa Shilā), also known as लाल पत्थर (lāl pathar - red stone) or धातुरूप पाषाण (dhāturūpa pāṣāṇa - metallic rock), is a weathered, iron-rich sedimentary rock extensively used in Indic heritage architecture [1]. Originating from intense laterization, its composition includes goethite (α-FeOOH), hematite (Fe₂O₃), and kaolinite (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄), contributing to its characteristic reddish-brown color and high iron oxide content [2]. Density ranges from 1.4-2.9 g/cm³, with compressive strength varying significantly (1-50 MPa) based on induration [3]. Traditional quarrying methods across Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Kerala provided material for load-bearing walls, foundations, and well linings. The Vijayanagara Empire, Kadamba Dynasty, and Portuguese colonial architecture prominently feature laterite. High porosity (30-65%) and permeability necessitate careful conservation strategies, including consolidation and water management, to mitigate weathering in heritage sites. Understanding its physical and chemical properties is crucial for effective restoration of structures built during the Medieval and Early Modern periods [4].
Also Known As	Laterite Stone Laiṭerāiṭa Śilā Laterite Stone Laterite Rock Red Stone Iron-rich Stone लैटेराइट पत्थर लाल पत्थर मखरली पत्थर मखरली शिला धातुरूप पाषाण चिखली पत्थर
Tags	Laterite Iron-rich Porous Red Stone Goa Coastal Iron oxide West Bengal Tropical soil Quarry Soil Telangana Odisha Iron Kerala Stone लैटेराइट Laiterāiṭa
Material ID	`INHFMAT-818231956-20-11-25-LE`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/laterite-stone
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/laterite-stone`
Total Sites	3
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Ancient Period Medieval Period Early Modern Period Colonial Period
Dynasties	Kadamba Dynasty Vijayanagara Empire Portuguese Malla dynasty Kakatiya Dynasty Ganga Dynasty Bahmani Sultanate Maratha Empire Travancore Dynasty Gupta Empire

Title	Type	Notes
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties
Building with Laterite	Book	Technical properties and construction techniques
Geological Survey of India Reports	Geological Survey	Laterite formation and properties

Site Name	Status	Confidence
Adil Shah Palace Old Goa	Primary	100%
Barabati Fort Cuttack	Secondary	100%
Jagannath Temple Puri	Secondary	100%

लैटेराइट शिला (Laterite Stone)

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