புறநானூற்றில் கட்டுமானத் தொழில்நுட்பம்: Construction Technology in Purananuru

Abstract

Among human basic needs, shelter comes right after food and clothing. Human progress from dwelling in naturally available caves and tree hollows to intentionally constructing houses, multi-story buildings, ramparts, fortifications, and moats marked the emergence of construction technology. Ancient Tamils employed various construction techniques suited to their living requirements and security needs. References to simple dwellings, pillars, tall multi-story buildings, high walls, mortar mixtures, fortifications, moats, and weapon-fitted fortresses from that era highlight the architectural and engineering knowledge of ancient Tamils. Based on evidence from the Purananuru, this article explores the settlement structures, pillars and residential construction, high walls, tall buildings, mortar and building materials, fortress and fortification construction, armed defenses, and water body construction engineering of ancient Tamils.

Keywords

• Construction technology
• Ancient Tamils
• Settlement
• Pillar
• Multi-story building
• High wall
• Mortar mixture
• Fortification
• Fortress
• Rampart
• Moat
• Weaponry
• Water body construction.