Saptakoteshwar Temple

Archaeological remains dating back to the 14th–16th centuries have been discovered during restoration work at the old site of the Saptakoteshwar Temple on Divar Island, Goa.

The restoration work along the old pathway between Koti Tirth and Madhavachi Talli revealed remains indicating successive phases of temple construction and reconstruction.

The discoveries include a Kirtimukh motif, traditionally carved above temple doorways, a carved pillar capital reflecting the architectural sophistication of the earlier structure, and parts of Dev Khostam, which were used for placing idols within the temple.

About Saptakoteshwar Temple

Shaivite Tradition

The Saptakoteshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is regarded as an important Shaivite temple of the Konkan region.

The temple has a long history of religious and cultural significance, with its traditions extending across several political periods in Goa.

Historical Connections

Kadamba Dynasty

The temple had strong associations with the Kadamba dynasty, which ruled parts of the region between the 10th and 14th centuries CE. The Kadamba rulers were devotees of Lord Shiva.

Coins carrying the inscription “Saptakotishvaralabdha–Varaprasada” indicate the importance of the deity among the Kadamba rulers.

Vijayanagar Period

Following destruction during earlier periods, the temple was reconstructed during the Vijayanagar period. This reconstruction reflects the continued religious importance of the shrine.

Portuguese Period

During Portuguese rule in Goa, the temple faced destruction and displacement, resulting in the relocation of the Shiva Linga.

Maratha Restoration

The temple tradition was subsequently revived under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, who reconstructed the temple in 1668.

Legend Behind the Name

According to local tradition, seven sages worshipped Lord Shiva at the site. Shiva subsequently appeared as Saptakoteshwar.

The name is associated with “Sapt”, meaning seven, and “Koteshwar”, referring to the Lord of crores.

Archaeological Significance

The recent discoveries provide evidence of the temple's successive architectural phases. The Kirtimukh, pillar capital and Dev Khostam provide important clues about the architectural character of the earlier temple structures.

The findings are particularly significant because they help establish the continuity of the site through different historical periods.

Cultural Significance

Saptakoteshwar Temple represents the layered cultural heritage of Goa, reflecting the influence of the Kadamba, Vijayanagar, Portuguese and Maratha periods.

At the same time, it demonstrates the continuity of Shaivite traditions in the Konkan region despite successive political and cultural changes.