Mukteswara-Siddheswara Temple - मुक्तेश्वर-सिद्धेश्वर मंदिर

Shri Mukteswara-Siddheswara Temple is an ancient Hindu temple in Bhubaneswar city in the state of Odisha. It is one of the oldest and famous temples of Bhubaneswar and one of the most visited tourist places in Bhubaneswar.

The temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Shiva and is famous for its beautiful carvings and exquisite craftsmanship. In the 10th century, the temple was built and it's a monument of importance in the study of the development of Hindu temples in Odisha.

Mythology
According to the legend, the temple is considered to be one of the oldest temples of the Somvanshi dynasty. Many scholars believe that this temple is the successor temple of the Parshurameshwar temple and the first Brahmeshwar temple was built.

Architecture
Due to its excellent architecture, it is known as the 'Gem of Odisha'. The Mukteswar Temple is a true specimen of the ancient and modern Kalinga School of Architecture, which is completely mixed. The temple is a huge structure 35 feet high and is a marvel in sandstone. The temple faces west and is built in a lower cellar among a group of temples. The temple has an entrance or Torana, vimana and a Jaganmohan, leading hall. The temple is the first temple to be built in the Pithedula type. Jagmohan's pyramid roof was the first of its kind on a traditional two-tier structure.

The main attraction of the temple is the magnificent archway - the decorative entrance, an arched masterpiece, reminiscent of the Buddhist influence in Odisha. This thick pillar, the vaulted entrance gate is elegantly carved with beads and other attractive ornaments, with statues of smiling women in attractive postures. The temple has some exquisite carvings and is famous for its captivating and attractive sculptures.