Mahadev Temple

Mahadeva Temple, located near the village of Surla, in the Indian state of West Goa, was built in the architectural style of Yadava in the XII century and is considered one of the oldest such temples in the country. The temple got its name in honor of the god Shiva, whom the Indians call Mahadeva.

Carved of solid stone, the temple is the only example of pre-Portuguese temple architecture. Among its features can be noted the presence of garbhagriha - a cubic sanctuary, in the center of which is the murti of the main deity, and the passage of mukhamandapa, which is used to store religious objects: vessels, ritual objects and food that is intended as a gift to the deities. On the shakhara temple tower you can see well-preserved bas-reliefs with images of Hindu gods and goddesses.