Uyyakondan Thirumalai Temple – History
The
original complex is believed to have been built by Cholas, while the present masonry structure was built during
the Nayak during the 16th century. The temple has
inscriptions dating from Kulothunga Chola I (1070-1118 CE), that speaks of separate community
known as 'Rathakarar', a sect of expert carpenter skilled in the art of
designing and making temple cars. The temple was occupied by French and English
forces during the siege of Trichinopoly (old Tiruchirappalli) in 1753-54.
After
the war battle of Sugar-loaf rock, English Major Lawrence marched against the
fortified temple and carried it by assault. In the 18th century, this was
the fort and place of residence for British, French and Mysore army. In modern
times, the temple is maintained and administered by the Hindu
Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamilnadu. The temple has inscriptions from the Chola period.