The Chidambaram temple complex proudly boasts of being one of the oldest temple complexes in Southern India. The most unique characteristic of the Nataraj Temple is the bejewelled image of Nataraj. The temple has five main Halls or Sabhas namely the Kanaka Sabha, the Cit Sabha, Nritta Sabha, Deva Sabha and Raja Sabha.
The Chidambaram Temple reflects the space element. The other four temples are Jambukeswara (Water), Ekambareswara (Earth), Arunachaleswara (Fire), and Kalahasteeswara (Wind). The idol in this temple is so perfectly placed that Lord Nataraja's big toe is right in the centre point of the world's magnetic equator.
Shiva danced in Chidambaram temple because this is represented by the circular or elliptical frame surrounding Shiva. Secondly, the purpose of his dance is to release the souls of all men from the snare of illusion. Lastly, the place of the dance, Chidambaram, which is portrayed as the center of the universe, is actually within the heart.