The 1,300-year-old Abathsahayeshwarar Temple in Thukkatchi in Thanjavur district (Tamil Nadu) has been chosen by UNESCO to receive the Award of Distinction – 2023 for having been conserved keeping its heritage intact.
- The temple, which is believed to have been constructed by Kings Vikrama Chola and Kulothunga Chola, is said to have had five prakarams previously.
- The temple had several shrines for deities, including Soundaryanayaki Ambal, Ashtabhuja Durga Parameshwari, Aadhi Sarabeshwarar, Pillayar, Murugan, Chandikeswarar, two Bhairavars, two Suryas and two Naagar.
