Madras, June 30: The Thanjavur Palace built by the Nayak Rulers in 16-17 century AD, standing on a 50-acre site, will be preserved as an archaeological monument. Necessary repairs will be carried out under a phased programme to protect this historical structure. The renovation will be undertaken by the State Department of Archaeology.The 90-feet high structure — the Bell Tower with a flight of steps to reach the top will be restored to its original strength this year.The Palace, in the middle of the town, was maintained by the Public Works Department till 1972 when it reported that the centuries-old building was in a very weak condition which did not permit carrying out major repairs or improvement. The PWD also felt that to take up the repair work at great heights was a hazardous process. The State Department of Archaeology, which has already taken up the responsibility of maintaining the Tirumalai Nayak Mahal in Madurai will now preserve this Palace.The Maharatta kings who ruled Thanjavur after the Nayaks, evinced very keen interest in the upkeep of the palace and spent large amounts on its improvement.Part of this mammoth structure now houses the Art Gallery and the world-renowned Saraswathi Mahal Library. Valuable portrait-paintings of the Maharatta rulers adorn the inner walls of the Palace but these have suffered heavy damage in the hands of unscrupulous visitors. The Department will preserve them too. Published - July 01, 2026 02:20 am IST