Brihadeeswarar Temple commonly also known as Big Temple located in Thanjavur in the Indian State of Tamil Nadu. It is Hindu Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and also known as Rajarajeswaram and Peruvudayar Temple. The Temple was built by Raja Raja Chola I in 1010 CE. It is 1000 years old and one of the largest temples in India and is an example of Dravidian architecture during the Chola period. The temple is most visited destination of Thanjavur. The temple stands in the fortified walls that were probably added in the 16th century. The temple tower 60 m high and is one of the tallest in the world. The Kumbam weighs around 80 tons. There is a big statue of Nandi carved out of a single rock measuring about 4.9 m long and 4 m high at the entrance. Whole temple is constructed from granite. The architect and engineer of the temple was Kunjara Mallan Raja Raja Rama Perunthachan as stated in inscriptions found at the temple. The solid base of the temple raises about 5 metres, above which stone deities and representatives of Shiva dance are mentioned.

The temple complex sits on the banks of a river and the walls have been built like a fortress. The outer wall of the upper storey is carved with postures of classical dance Bharathanatyam. Architecture of this temple is designed in such a way that the temple could not cast any shadow when sun is at its peak. Main Shrines in the temple were further added by Pandyas, Vijayanagara rulers and Maratha rulers.