Nagapattinam: The Archaeological Survey of India has commenced renovation of the 400-year-old “Gateway of Tranquebar”, a Danish monument at Tarangambadi in this district.
The move comes after repeated representations from a Denmark-based association.
Traders from Denmark who arrived 400 years ago at Tarangambadi (Tranquebar) made the place their main settlement.
They built a port, a fortress and several monuments of rich architectural value including the ‘Gateway of Tranquebar’, a spectacular arch at the entrance of the town.
However, over the years, most of the monuments were damaged and ‘Danish Tranquebar Association’, a voluntary organisation comprising a group prominent citizens in Denmark drew the attention of the Archaeological Survey of India for its renovation.
In 2003, the gateway was restored to its glorious beauty by ASI and declared it as ‘protected monumnet’ under the Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1951.
However within years the monument totally lost its shine and colour. The outer layer had withered and inner bricks were visible following which situation, the ASI has once again commenced renovation works.
Speaking to PTI at Tarangambadi, Poul Peterson, Vice-President of Danish Tranquebar Association said the ASI has commenced the renovation work now. We are extremely glad and thank ASI on behalf of the people of Denmark,” he said. PTI
