Perilously close to the sea is the famous Shore Temple, perhaps the most famous of all Mahabalipuram’s sights. Composed of two towers, the Shore Temple’s architecture has significantly influenced subsequent architectural styles in south India and beyond. Due to eroding effects of the wind, sand, salt, and sea-spray, the architectural elements have a much softer, less detailed appearance. This is particularly so on the side facing the sea. Perched on the walls surrounding the temple were seated Nandi figures.
Of interest, the tsunami of 2004 revealed additional structures and animal carvings consistent with the Pallava period. Subsequ
ent underwater excavations have since occurred, revealing new structures first chronicled by a British traveler in 1798, perhaps part of the legendary seven pagodas. It is theorized that the submerged structures were victims of an earlier tsunami.In recent years the site has undergone renovation and a cosmetic upgrade, a suitable tribute to the temple's UNESCO World Heritage status.
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