Thanjavur, the ancient city of Tamil Nadu and the erstwhile capital of the Chola Empire is home to numerous 'Great Living Chola Temples', the greatest of which is the Brihadeeswarar temple or more commonly known as the Big Temple ('Periya Kovil' in Tamil).

The 1000 year old temple is well known for its architecture and prized stone sculptures but it also is home to some of the most beautiful, vibrant, intricate frescos to be found anywhere in South India.