Madurai, often referred to as the "Athens of the East," is a vibrant city nestled in the southern part of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Steeped in history and mythology, Madurai is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a legacy that dates back over 2,500 years. The city's crowning jewel is the Meenakshi Amman Temple, a sprawling complex dedicated to the goddess Meenakshi and her consort Sundareswarar.