Thanjavur palace complex was erected by the Nayak king Vijaya Raghava Nayak (1633-74 CE) the last king of Thanjai Nayak dynasty. This fort comprises an area of 530 acres and in surrounded by 15 feet high wall and moat 15 feet deep. Due to the expansion of the township in course of time, the moat was filled and the wall demolished in several places. Only a portion of the rampart to a length of 21 feet is still preserved on the eastern side with an inscribed cannon Rajagopala. This department also preserves the other parts of the buildings such as ARSENAL TOWER, BELL TOWER, SADAR MADI, and DARBAR HALL. Thanjavur Palace with its architectural beauty reflects the Marathas and Nayaks patronage towards art and culture. Paintings in the Dharbar hall depict the scenes from epic Ramayana while the stucco figures of Gods and Goddesses are well projected on the walls and ceiling.

Antiquities on Display

Stone Sculptures, Porcelain wares, iron implements such as sword, dagger and knife. The Museum, which is functioning in the Thanjavur Palace complex in the heart of the town, is popularly known as Maratha Museum.