A rare maritime shrine from the Later-Chola period has been discovered near the coast of Nagapattinam in Tamil Nadu. The temple is unique for its use of quartz-inlaid granite pillars, which would have caught and reflected the light of the rising sun. Dedicated to Lord Murugan, the shrine appears to have served as a landmark for ancient seafarers navigating the Bay of Bengal.
The excavation has also revealed several votive anchors made of stone and inscriptions mentioning the "Ayyavole" trade guild. These findings emphasize the close link between religious institutions and maritime commerce during the 11th century. Conservationists are now working to protect the site from coastal erosion and rising sea levels.