Poompuhar

Why in News?

The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) has commenced the third phase of underwater archaeological exploration off the coast of Poompuhar in Mayiladuthurai district. The exploration seeks to investigate the submerged archaeological remains associated with the ancient port city and provide further insights into its maritime and historical significance.

About Poompuhar

Poompuhar, historically known as Kaveripoompattinam or Puhar, was an ancient port city located on the Bay of Bengal coast of present-day Tamil Nadu. It flourished as a major maritime centre as early as the 4th century BCE and was associated with the Chola Empire, serving as an important centre of trade and commerce.

The city’s location at the mouth of the River Kaveri made it an important maritime gateway. Over time, substantial portions of ancient Poompuhar are believed to have been submerged, making it an important site for underwater archaeology and the study of ancient coastal settlements, maritime trade and interactions across the Bay of Bengal.

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