FAMOUS SUN TEMPLE OF KONARK
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The sun temple at Konark, or surya deula near Bhubaneswar in Orissa is one of the most magnificent temples in India. It is known for its erotic sculptures and is considered to be the prime example of Orissan temple architecture. To mariners, who used it as a landmark, it was known as the Black Pagoda as, seen from the sea, it stood out as a black mass.
The temple was constructed in the mid 13th century by King Narasimha Dev of Ganga dynasty. It was built in the form of sun god's gigantic chariot with 12 pairs of ornamented wheels and 7 rearing horses for drawing the chariot. The sun temple, majestic in conception, was built by 1200 architects in 12 years.
On its walls one can find thousands of elephants in various moods and postures. The huge wheels, horses, elephants, lovely figures, and life-size figures of musicians are rare specimens of art and architects of Orissa.
Other buildings in the temple complex include the Dancing Hall (or Hall of Offerings), shrines, and free-standing statuary. The complex is surrounded by walls forming an enclosure about 265 m (875 ft) by 165 m (540 ft).
