1. AAT
  2. Architectural Styles
  3. Gopuram architecture style
Title

Gopuram architecture style

4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Rare
4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
DescriptionGopurams are monumental tower gateways, a prominent feature of South Indian temples, adorned with intricate sculptures depicting deities, mythological figures, and scenes from Hindu epics, serving as symbolic entrances to the sacred precinct.
Also Known As
Dravidian Temple Architecture with Straits Settlements Adaptations
Dravidian Gopuram
Straits Settlement Vernacular
Chariot Procession Architecture
Tags
Gopuram
Dwarapalaka
Shikhara
Prasada
Mandira
Style ID
INHF-STY-6638078636-08:37:27:22:07:24:GAS
URIhttps://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/gopuram-architecture-style
API Endpoint
https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/gopuram-architecture-style
Total Sites1
Primary Sites0
CreatedNovember 19, 2025
Last UpdatedNovember 29, 2025

External References

View on Wikidata

Regions

Regions
Tamil Nadu
Karnataka
Andhra Pradesh
Kerala

Historical Context

Time Periods
12th century CE onwards
Dynasties
Chola
Pandya
Vijayanagara
Nayaka

Sacred Context

Sacred Contexts
Hindu temple entrances
Associated Deities
Gatekeepers
Deities from Hindu pantheon

Architectural Details

Primary Materials
Brick
Stucco
Stone
Timber
Architectural Features
Towering height
Tiered structure
Sculptural ornamentation
Brightly painted

Keywords

Keywords
Gopuram
Dwarapalaka
Shikhara
Prasada
Mandira

Recommended Sources

TitleTypeNotes
Indian Architecture (Buddhist and Hindu Periods)BookClassic survey of Indian temple architecture.

Heritage Sites (1)

Site NameStatusConfidence
Sri Maha Mariamman Temple George Town Penang
Secondary
100%

See Also

Related Materials

Brick
Stucco
Stone
Timber

Related Features

Towering height
Tiered structure
Sculptural ornamentation
Brightly painted

Example Sites

Sri Maha Mariamman Temple George Town Penang
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How to Identify Gopuram architecture style

  1. Look for characteristic features: Towering height, Tiered structure, Sculptural ornamentation.
  2. Verify geographic location: Gopuram architecture style architecture is typically found in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
  3. Examine construction materials: Gopuram architecture style typically uses Brick and Stucco.
  4. Consider historical context: This style dates from 12th century CE onwards.
  5. Compare with documented examples: 1 heritage sites use this architectural style.

Frequently Asked Questions