Tanjore palace was built by the Tanjore Royal Nayakar family and it was the official residence of the Royal family from 1674 to 1855.Tanjore palace is at a stone throw distance from the World famous Big temple. The whole palace has three parts , Saraswathi Mahal, Durbar Hall and Sardar Maadi. Saraswathi Mahal has a world famous library , Saraswathi Mahal Library which is a rich treasure trove for anyone who is interested in the Tamil literature and Tamilnadu history. Durbar hall is a beautiful wooden structure which is magnificently painted ceiling. The entire structure along with the paintings have withstood the test of time ( around 400 years). Sardar Maadi is a four storied building with beautifully carved sculptures and pillars all around. It is now being used as a museum by the State Archaeology department of Tamilnadu