Vellore had the previlege of being the seat of
the Pallava, Chola, Nayak, Maratha, Arcot Nawabs and Bijapur Sultan
Kindoms. It was described as the best and the strongest fortress in the
Carnatic War in the 17th Century. It was witnessed the massacre of
European soldier during the mutiny of 1806.
Vellore district lies between 12° 15’ to 13°
15’ North latitudes and 78° 20’ to 79°
50’ East longitudes in Tamilnadu State. The geographical area of this
district is 6077 sq. k.m. The total population as per 1991 Census is
30,26,432.
Vellore is the Head-Quarters of Vellore
District is well connected by Rail and bus routes to major towns of the
neighbouring states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Kerala. The
history of the District assumes a great significance and relevance, as
we unfold the glorious past. The Monuments found in the district give a
vivid picture of the town through the ages. In the 18th Century Vellore
District was the scene of some of the decisive battles fought in Ambur
1749 A.D., Arcot 1751 A.D. and Vandavasi 1768 A.D. as a result of the
long – drawn struggle between the English and the French for Supremacy.
One of the monuments of Vellore is the Fort. A
very close examination of the stone inscriptions suggests that the Fort
in all probability might have been built during the rule of Chinna Bommi
Nayak (1526 to 1595 A.D.). The Fort is one of the most
perfect speciments of Military architecture in South India. The
Jalakandeswarar Temple inside the Fort is a very fine example of
Vijayanagar architecture. The Kalyanamantap on the left of the entrance,
with intricate carvings and delicacy of execution bears testimony to
the engineering marvel and advanced state of sculpture of the times.
Another landmark that has put Vellore on the Centre stage of Medical
world is the Christian Medical College & Hospital.
The outstanding performance of this district in
contributing to the Military service is commendable, as more and more
men have enlisted themselves to the Military service, to serve the
nationa indomitable spirit and courage. The clock tower in the long
bazaar, Vellore was built in 1928 A.D.. A stone inscription in the
building reads "VELLORE – FROM THIS VILLAGE 277 MEN WENT TO THE GREAT
WAR 1914-18, OF THEM 14 GAVE UP THEIR LIVES" . This is a recorded
testimony to the Vellore and Military prowess of men of this area.
