| The Solanki style of temple architecture that flourished in Gujarat has all the essential features of a north Indian temple, but bears the closest affinities to the Rajasthan style. On plan, it consists of a sanctum, a closed hall and a porch that are inter-connected internally and externally. The wall faces are broken by numerous indentations, projected and recessed alternately, which are continued along the elevation, producing a pleasing contrast of light and shade. In larger temples a detached peristylar hall is added in the same axis, often preceded by a torana or ornamental arched entrance. In rare cases the hall has more storeys than one. The temple at Sunak (10th century), Sun temple at Modhera (11th century), the Vemala Temple at Mount Abu (11th century) and the Somnath Temple at Kathiawar (12th century) are some of the best examples of this style of architecture. |
