KORKAI – An Ancient Pandya Port City And The History Of Vettivel Amman Temple

Abstract

Korkai, the ancient city of the Pandya kings, is one of the oldest settlements situated near the Thamirabarani River and close to the Gulf of Mannar. It served as an important political centre and maritime trading hub of the ancient Pandya kingdom.  Korkai flourished as a symbol of India's glory and was celebrated as the treasure house of Tamil Nadu. It received special recognition in ancient Tamil literature. The significance of Korkai is also mentioned in Valmiki's Ramayana, an ancient Sanskrit epic. Greek historical accounts also praise Korkai. As Korkai served both as a capital city and as a seaport, it developed into a prominent commercial town. Greek merchants and people from China who came for trade settled in the region.