of the Islamic conqueror Malikkapur. As kings who were followers of Islam were noted for their intolerance towards other religions, the invaders destroyed most of the ancient sculptures of the temple. The temple was restored to its pristine glory in the late 14th century when the Hindu Kings came back to power in Madurai. This can also be termed as a new beginning of a new era in the history of the temple, when it was almost rebuilt. . .
The reign of the Naickka rulers for 200 years saw the construction of many mandapams and other additions like the Hall of Thousand Pillars, Asha Shakti Mandapam, Puthu Mandapam, Vandiyoor huge tank, and Naickar Palace. The greater part of the temple, as it exists today, was built between the 12th and 18th century. In 1877 renovation on a large scale was done by the Nagarathar. During this renovation many of the fine sculptures in the Kambathadi Mandapam were installed and the unfinished North Tower was completed.
