Interesting remains of the erstwhile Chola capital have been excavated by Tamil Nadu Department of Archaeology.

In less than two months since the excavations began at the site at Maligaimedu, which is close to Gangaikonda Cholpauram, the capital city of Rajendra Chola I, the department has recovered 13 coarse brick walls, a copper coin, some potshers and iron pieces, said this report.

A piece of Chinese celadon ware belonging to 10-11th century has also been found. According to Deputy Director of Archaeology, R Sivanandam, the presence of celadon ware is indicative of the trade ties that had existed between the two nations back then.

The coin that is to be sent for chemical cleaning is said to belong to the Chola era owing to its circular shape. A complete assessment of the brick structures will require further digging, said Sivanandam, as quoted.

Past excavations have revealed the presence of Rajendra Chola’s palace. At present, the department is probing the remains of the bygone era at five trenches at the sites at Maligaimedu. This is among seven sites that the state archaelogy department recieved approval from the Central Advisory Board of Archaeology for excavation.

The other six sites include Keezhadi and the region around Sivaganga district, Adichanallur, Sivagalai, Korkai and sites around Thoothukudi district, Kodumanal in Erode district, Mayiladumparai in Krishnagiri district and Gangaikonda Cholapuram.

Work at this site started earlier this year in February and is expected to continue until the onset of monsoon this year.

Plans for larger explorations are said to be on the cards as the department attempts to know more about the palaces, streets and cities. As reported, surveys were done using drone, thermal camera and ground penetrating radars before undertaking excavation at the present site.

Mayiladumparai

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