The state archaeology department, which is conducting the third phase of archaeological excavations atMaaligaimedunearGangaikonda Cholapuramin Ariyalur district, has unearthed a stone pillar which is believed to be the remnant of a Chola-era palace.
According to official sources, the stone pillar measures 6.4 metres in length and 72cm in width.
It was discovered at theUtkottaiexcavation site, approximately 1 km from Maaligaimedu.
The first phase of excavation took place between February and September 2021. The second phase of the excavation was undertaken between February and September 2022. Gangaikonda Cholapuram, once a prosperous trading town, flourished as the capital city of the Cholas.