The Chola dynasty is credited with building some of the most imposing religious structures in South India during their reign. They were prolific temple builders right from the times of the first medieval King Vijayalaya Chola. Their celebrated temples include the Brihadeshvara Temple of Thanjavur and Brihadeshvara Temple of Gangaikonda Cholapuram, the Airavatesvara Temple of Darasuram and the Sarabeswara (Shiva) Temple, also called the Kampahareswarar Temple at Thirubhuvanam, the last two temples being located near Kumbakonam.