The Tanjore Palace or the Thanjavur Maratha Palace Complex, on the east main street, was initially constructed by Thanjavur Nayak kings. Within the palace complex exists a small bell tower and the renowned Saraswathi Mahal Library. The goodagopuram served as the palace watch tower and also the armoury of the Thanjavur kings till 1855. The palace consists of a number of large and rambling buildings of fine masonry. A large quadrangular courtyard leads to a many-pillared hall while the smaller inner courtyard opens to a larger one. Besides the Saraswathi Mahal Library, other popular sights here include the two durbar halls of the Nayaks and the Marathas, and the Madamaligai Tower (out of bounds for visitors as it was damaged by lightning strike). If you like history and architecture, this palace complex is a must visit.