Palace
Mattancherry Palace
Exploring the Enchanting Kochi
Introduction:
Welcome to Mattancherry Palace, a captivating historical monument in Kochi, Kerala. Also known as the Dutch Palace, this magnificent structure boasts a rich history that dates back to the 16th century. As an expert travel agent and guide, I am excited to take you on a journey through this architectural marvel and share the key highlights, places to visit, things to do, and other essential information for a delightful tourist experience.
History:
Mattancherry Palace was built around 1545 by the Portuguese as a gift to the King of Cochin, intending to establish trading relations with the kingdom. Later, the Dutch rulers took over and extensively renovated the palace in 1663, which is why it acquired the name Dutch Palace. The walls of the palace bear witness to its storied past, adorned with intricate mural paintings depicting scenes from Hindu mythology and the epic Ramayana.
Key Highlights:
Nālukettu Architecture: The palace showcases the traditional Kerala Nālukettu style of architecture, characterized by a quadrangular structure with a central courtyard.
Royal Murals: The palace's interior is adorned with mesmerizing murals executed in the best traditions of Hindu temple art, featuring depictions of gods, goddesses, and epic tales.
Coronation Hall: Marvel at life-size portraits of the Kochi kings in their coronation robes, giving insight into the region's regal past.
Entry and Fees:
The Mattancherry Palace is open to the public on all days, except Fridays and Saturdays. The entrance fee is just 2 rupees for adults, and children below the age of 15 years can enter for free.
Places to Visit:
Royal Bed Chamber: Admire the spectacular mural painting narrating the entire story of Ramayana.
Coronation Hall: Witness the portraits of Kochi kings in their regal attire.
Dutch Maps and Treasures: Explore the collection of Dutch maps, antique royal regalia, and other historical artifacts.
Things to Do:
Experience Kerala Murals: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Hindu temple art through the palace's stunning murals.
Learn about the History: Discover the intriguing tales of the palace's past and the rulers who resided within its walls.
Visit Nearby Attractions: Explore the Paradesi Synagogue, Jews Town, and Pazhayannur Bhagavathy Temple in the vicinity.
Pros:
Fascinating blend of Kerala and European architecture.
Rich collection of mural paintings and historical artifacts.
Convenient accessibility from Ernakulam city.
Cons:
Limited visiting hours on Fridays and Saturdays.
Relatively small compared to some other palaces in India.
Location and Accessibility:
Mattancherry Palace is conveniently located in the heart of Kochi, just 8 kilometers away from Ernakulam city. Travelers can reach the palace easily via private cars, ferries, or auto-rickshaws.
Accommodation:
Kochi offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Tourists can find luxurious hotels, boutique guesthouses, and budget-friendly hostels in the vicinity of Mattancherry Palace.
Conclusion:
A visit to Mattancherry Palace is a mesmerizing journey into the regal past of Kerala's Kochi Kingdom. The palace's architectural beauty, stunning murals, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for tourists. As an expert travel agent and guide, I highly recommend exploring this captivating heritage site to experience the grandeur of bygone years.