 Sethiyathope was established as a civilian town by the Cholas in the 11th century C.E.According to Tamil scholars, Sethiyathope was formed as a settlement when the famous Chola King Rajendra moved his capital from Thanjavur to Gangaikondacholapuram which lies 20 km south.Sethiyaar, a landlord used to own this piece of woodlands (Thoppu) on the banks of river Vellar and thus derives the name Sethiyarthoppu (Sethiathope).