Govindaraja Temple, Tirupati
Sri Govindarajaswamy Temple is an ancient Hindu Vaishnavite temple situated in the heart of Tirupati city in Tirupati district of Andhra Pradesh in India. The temple was built during 12th century and was consecrated in the year 1130 AD by Saint Ramanuja. The temple is one of the earliest structures in Tirupati and also one of the biggest temple complexes in Tirupati district. The Tirupati (down hill) city is built around this temple. The temple is currently administered by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams. Legend It is believed that during invasion of Govindaraja Perumal Temple in Chidambaram, the Utsava murti (processional deity) was brought to Tirupati for safe keeping. The Utsava murti was taken back after the invasions. History Govindaraja Temple was consecrated in the year 1130 AD by saint Ramanuja. However, there are structures inside the temple complex which belong to 9th and 10th centuries. Before Govindaraja was consecrated as the presiding deity, another form of Vishnu - Parthasarathy enjoyed that honour. Kotturu, a village at the foot of Tirumala hills, was moved to the vicinity of Govindaraja Temple which was later merged into city of Tirupati. Presiding Deity The temple is dedicated to the god Vishnu, who is referred to