The Meenakshi temple complex is literally a city one of the largest of its kind in India and one of the oldest.Various kings have renovated it, adding many convoluted corridors here, larger-than-life sculptures there, polishing an abode suitable for Meenakshi, one of the many forms of goddess Parvati (consort of Lord Shiva). Stonewalls and towers of the Meenakshi temple is rising out of the teeming streets of Madurais city center. From her rambling maze-like palace, the Goddess Meenakshi presides here. It is said that her image (all three and a half feet tucked into the ancient and dark sanctuary, which is lit by a steady glow from an oil lamp) is carved out of a single emerald.This whole magnificent temple complex sprawls over an area of 6 hectares. It also has 12 gopurams, ranging in height from 45 to 50 m, which is the tallest being the southern one. The southern gateway is very beautifully proportioned and is nine stories high.