Here's a breakdown:
* Mythology: According to legend, the temple is attributed to the mythical king Ravana who was a great devotee of Shiva. The temple's origin is often linked to the Ramayana, where Rama is said to have worshipped Shiva here after defeating Ravana.
* Historical Evidence: While this mythology is ingrained in the temple's history, historical records suggest that the temple's construction was a gradual process undertaken by various rulers over time.
* Early Phases: Early phases of the temple are attributed to the Pallavas and Cholas.
* Major Construction: The Pandya Kings are credited with the majority of the construction, including the majestic corridors and the towering gopurams (gateway towers).
* Later Renovations: The temple saw additions and renovations under the Vijayanagara Empire and Nayaka Kings.
In Summary:
The Ramanathaswamy Temple was built through a collaborative effort of different rulers throughout history. While mythology attributes it to Ravana, the historical record highlights the contributions of various dynasties, making it a magnificent testament to the rich architectural heritage of South India.