Conservation of Historic Urban Landscape of Srirangam ,Temple Town

Abstract

Temple towns, where religious, cultural, and economic activities center around the temple, have played a pivotal role in shaping urban development, particularly during the early medieval period. The Bhakti movement, alongside the rise of dynasties such as the Pallavas, Cholas, and Pandyas, contributed to the growth of these towns, where land grants to Brahmins and temples fostered agricultural expansion. These towns, serving as vibrant cultural and economic hubs, are invaluable representations of our shared heritage. Urban heritage, especially in historic cities, encapsulates the collective memory of past generations, influencing present-day social, cultural, and economic landscapes. As urbanization accelerates globally, the challenges of preserving historic urban landscapes become increasingly pressing. Cities face rapid growth, social fragmentation, commercial exploitation of cultural assets, and climate change, necessitating comprehensive conservation approaches. The Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach, which emphasizes recognition, identification, conservation, and management, offers a framework for maintaining the integrity of these urban environments. This thesis focuses on the conservation of Srirangam Temple Town, a prime example of a historic temple town, examining its cultural and spatial components. The town's religious and cultural significance, coupled with its role in fostering social cohesion and economic development, underscores the importance of preserving its heritage in the face of modern urban pressures. By applying the HUL principles, this study aims to propose sustainable strategies for safeguarding Srirangam's unique urban landscape while ensuring its continued vitality in a globalized world.