Nestled in the heart of Ernakulam, Kerala, the Mattanchery Palace stands as a magnificent testament to the cultural heritage of the region. Also known as the Dutch Palace, this architectural gem showcases a seamless fusion of Dutch and traditional Kerala styles. With its intricate wooden carvings, stunning murals, and charming courtyard, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1555, the palace was later extended and renovated by the Dutch in the 17th century, hence its alternative name.
As you explore its spacious rooms and corridors, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by opulent interiors and an air of regality. The palace houses a fascinating museum that showcases an impressive collection of artifacts, including antique furniture, royal portraits, and priceless paintings. The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the stunning murals depicting scenes from the Ramayana and other Hindu mythological tales. A visit to the linetogel Mattanchery Palace is a must for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and anyone interested in immersing themselves in the rich tapestry of Kerala’s past. Step inside this architectural marvel and embark on a journey through time.
Contents
- 1 Historical significance of Mattanchery Palace
- 2 Architecture and design of Mattanchery Palace
- 3 Art and artifacts at Mattanchery Palace
- 4 Visit Mattanchery Palace: Opening hours and ticket information
- 5 Nearby attractions to explore in Ernakulam, Kerala
- 6 How to reach Mattanchery Palace
- 7 Best time to visit Mattanchery Palace
- 8 Accommodation options near Mattanchery Palace
- 9 Experience the rich history at Mattanchery Palace
- 10 Author
Historical significance of Mattanchery Palace
The Mattanchery Palace holds a significant place in the annals of Kerala’s history. Built by the Portuguese in 1555, it was presented to Veera Kerala Varma, the then Raja of Kochi, in an attempt to secure trading privileges. However, the palace was usurped by the Dutch in the 17th century, who carried out substantial renovations before presenting it back to the Kochi Rajas.
The palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, served as the royal residence and administrative hub of the Kochi Rajas. It bore witness to significant historical events and political developments in the region. The coronation ceremonies of the Rajas were held in the ornately decorated Durbar Hall of the palace. Today, the palace stands as a symbol of the grandeur and opulence of Kerala’s bygone eras.
The palace was declared a monument of national importance by the Archaeological Survey of India in 1951 and is now maintained by the Department of Archaeology, Government of Kerala. It continues to attract history buffs, art connoisseurs, and curious tourists from across the globe.
Architecture and design of Mattanchery Palace
The Mattanchery Palace is a benchmark of traditional Kerala Nalukettu style architecture, with influences of Dutch design evident in its structure. The palace is quadrangular in shape, surrounding a central courtyard that houses a small temple dedicated to the Goddess Pazhayannur Bhagavathi, the protective deity of the Kochi royal family.
The palace’s architectural design is characterized by its sloping roofs, spacious rooms, wide verandas, and wooden ceilings with intricate floral carvings. The palace layout is symmetrically divided into female and male sections, following the norms of traditional Kerala homes. The female section or the “anthrappura” is marked by a pond and private prayer rooms.
The interiors of the palace are adorned with richly carved wooden ceilings, arches, and doorways. The flooring, made using a unique combination of burnt coconut shells, lime, plant juices, and egg whites, mimics the appearance of polished black marble. The simplicity of the exterior architecture contrasts starkly with the ornate interiors, making it an architectural marvel.
Art and artifacts at Mattanchery Palace
The Mattanchery Palace Museum contains an extensive collection of royal artifacts, including palanquins, weapons, furniture, and ceremonial dresses used by the Kochi royal family. However, the true highlight of the museum is its stunning murals.
The murals, painted over an area of nearly 300 square meters, are one of the finest examples of traditional Kerala mural art. They depict scenes from Indian epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as Puranic legends and tales of Hindu deities. The Ramayana panel, which narrates the story from the birth of Lord Rama to his coronation, is particularly captivating.
Besides the murals, the museum showcases a collection of royal portraits and photographs that offer a glimpse into the lives and times of the Kochi Rajas. Among these, the most striking is the life-size portrait of Raja Veera Kerala Varma, painted in western style.
Visit Mattanchery Palace: Opening hours and ticket information
The palace is open to the public from 10 am to 5 pm on all days except Fridays and national holidays. The entry fee is nominal, with separate charges for Indian and foreign nationals. Photography inside the palace is prohibited, and visitors are expected to maintain silence to preserve the tranquility of the place.
Visitors can take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of the palace’s history, architecture, and art. Audio guides in multiple languages are also available for those who prefer to explore at their own pace. It is advisable to allocate at least two hours for a comprehensive tour of the palace.
Visitors should dress modestly, keeping in mind the cultural sensitivities of the region. It is also advisable to carry water bottles, as the palace can get quite hot during the day.
Nearby attractions to explore in Ernakulam, Kerala
After exploring the Mattanchery Palace, tourists can visit several other historical and cultural attractions in Ernakulam. The Jewish Synagogue, located in the vicinity of the palace, is one of the oldest active synagogues in the Commonwealth of Nations.
The bustling spice market of Mattanchery, one of the oldest in India, is a must-visit for those interested in experiencing the local culture. Tourists can also explore the quaint streets of Fort Kochi, known for its colonial architecture, and visit the iconic Chinese Fishing Nets at the beach.
The St. Francis Church, the oldest European church in India, and the Indo-Portuguese Museum are other notable attractions in the area. For nature lovers, the Mangalavanam Bird Sanctuary offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
How to reach Mattanchery Palace
Mattanchery Palace is well-connected by road and can be easily accessed from various parts of Ernakulam. Public transport options, including buses and auto-rickshaws, are readily available. Taxis and private cabs can also be hired for a convenient and comfortable journey.
Those coming from outside Ernakulam can reach the city by air, rail, or road. The nearest airport is Cochin International Airport, located about 42 kilometers away. From the airport, taxis or buses can be taken to reach the palace. Ernakulam Junction and Ernakulam Town are the two main railway stations connecting the city to major Indian cities.
For those preferring to travel by road, state and national highways connect Ernakulam to various parts of Kerala and neighboring states. Once in the city, local transport can be used to reach the palace.
Best time to visit Mattanchery Palace
The best time to visit Mattanchery Palace is during the winter months of November to February, when the weather in Ernakulam is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing. The palace can get quite hot during the summer months of March to May, making it less comfortable for tourists.
The monsoon season, from June to September, sees heavy rainfall in the region. While the palace remains open, getting around can be challenging due to the rains. Hence, tourists are advised to check the weather forecast before planning their visit.
Regardless of the time of visit, it is recommended to reach the palace early in the day to avoid crowds and to have ample time to explore the museum and its surroundings.
Accommodation options near Mattanchery Palace
There are numerous accommodation options near Mattanchery Palace to suit different budgets. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget guesthouses and homestays, visitors can choose according to their preferences.
Several hotels offer amenities like complimentary breakfast, Wi-Fi, air-conditioned rooms, and 24/7 customer service. Some also arrange for guided tours to the palace and other local attractions. Homestays provide an opportunity to experience local culture and cuisine.
Online booking portals offer a wide range of options and often have deals and discounts. It is advisable to book accommodations in advance, particularly during the peak tourist season.
Experience the rich history at Mattanchery Palace
A visit to the Mattanchery Palace is a journey through the pages of Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. The palace’s historical significance, unique architecture, and splendid art and artifacts make it a must-visit for anyone exploring Ernakulam. If you’ve enjoyed exploring this architectural gem, we invite you to delve into another realm of luxury and elegance with our article about Luxury Cars. Discover the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship and innovation, and indulge in the allure of high-performance vehicles. Happy reading!
