Sea Shore Temple: Reviving Ancient Architecture Techniques with Modern Technologies

At the edge of the Bay of Bengal, in the south Indian state of Tamil Nadu, stands the Sea Shore Temple of Mahabalipuram — a breathtaking 8th-century monument and UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to awe with its natural beauty, balance, precision, and spiritual resonance. A majestic sight, the temple complex, located directly on the bedrock of the sea shore, is a testament to the architectural brilliance of the Pallava dynasty. This showcase of remarkable craftsmanship follows the meticulous grammar of Dravidian architecture, where even the smallest detail adheres to timeless proportions, balancing aesthetic appeal and standardization. 

The site's exposure to the elements has led to its gradual deterioration, threatening the preservation of its intricate design and historical significance. With the support of La Fondation Dassault Systèmes in India, the Kural Aram Foundation in Chennai breathes digital life into this ancient marvel, blending heritage with science, using cutting-edge 3D technologies to preserve this knowledge, make it widely accessible, and inspire artisans and architecture students.

Supported by La Fondation Dassault Systèmes and powered by the dedication of its skilled volunteers, this pioneering project - a first of a kind for Dravidian architecture - seeks to digitally preserve the Sea Shore Temple’s architectural brilliance. By creating a full parametric 3D model rooted in historical research and ancient texts in Tamil and Sanskrit, the initiative captures centuries-old design principles and construction methodologies. Through this detailed virtual reconstruction, the project not only safeguards this intangible heritage but also revives the architectural philosophies that have guided temple construction for generations, ensuring that the wisdom of the past is available to inform and inspire the future.

Through the learning content developed as part of this project and dedicated workshops, budding architects are gaining direct access to a comprehensive library of 3D Dravidian architectural elements and learning how parametric modeling can capture the precision and symbolism of temple design. Full 3D models enable deeper understanding, experimentation, and creativity grounded in tradition. Architecture students have the opportunity to delve into the intricacies of traditional temple architecture, not only discovering the roots of their cultural heritage but also experimenting with new ways to apply this knowledge using the power of modern technologies. This fusion of the past and present encourages a new generation to create with purpose.

This digital library of architectural elements also provides India’s master artisans — woodworkers, stonemasons, and metalworkers — with a valuable reference, helping them to bring ancient techniques into the 21st century. From the detailed 3D model of the temple, it is also possible to generate machine-readable files, which can be used with modern fabrication technologies such as CNC cutting, waterjet sculpting, and 3D printing. This opens new economic pathways for MSMEs involved in heritage crafts and manufacturing, preserving traditional techniques and adapting them to flourish in contemporary contexts.

Among the most inspiring outcomes of the project is the 360-degree Virtual Reality experience, created with the help of La Fondation Dassault Systèmes' skill volunteers. Based on the virtual twin of the Sea Shore Temple, it invites students, artisans, researchers, and history enthusiasts to walk through this 8th-century wonder and explore its elaborate carvings, sacred geometry, and symbolic architecture. This immersive journey offers a unique opportunity to connect with the Sea Shore Temple’s enduring legacy, fostering a deeper understanding of its significance — bringing ancient knowledge to life through the lens of today's technology.

Adopted by all United Nations member states, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. At its heart are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries - developed and developing - in a global partnership. La Fondation Dassault Systèmes supports the Parametric Modeling of the Sea Shore Temple - Mahabalipuram project in meeting five of these goals: Quality Education, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, Sustainable Cities and Communities, and Partnerships for the Goals.