The Konark Sun Temple, a 13th-century marvel, rises like a giant chariot to Surya, the Sun God, here are some things to know about it.
1
The Konark Sun Temple was built in the 13th century around 1250 CE by King Narasimhadeva I of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty.
2
Sun worship in the region dates back much further, possibly to the 19th century BC, there may have even been an older Sun Temple.
3
The temple's design reflects this dedication, taking the form of a giant chariot that Surya is depicted as riding across the sky.
4
The Konark Sun Temple complex is sprawled over 26 acres and is designed as a giant chariot with 12 massive wheels carved from stone.
5
It is believed that the temple took 12 years to build and required the talents of 12,000 artisans.
6
The temple has been weathered by the elements and suffered damage, The main tower, which is believed to have reached 225 feet tall.
7
The Konark Sun Temple remains an impressive and significant monument, It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.