Read More on Mattancherry Palace
History
The Kochi authorities welcomed Vasco Da Gama when he landed at Kappad in 1498 and granted him exclusive rights to build factories. The Portuguese detested the Zamorians' frequent attacks, and the Cochin Rajas became Portuguese vassals as a result. The Portuguese erected the Mattancherry Palace, which was ultimately given to the King of Cochin in 1555. The Dutch, who came over Mattancherry in 1663, superseded the Portuguese influence even more. In 1663, the Dutch completed some modifications and restorations, and the palace has been known as the Dutch Palace ever since.
Architecture
The palace is quadrangular in shape, with a hint of European influence in the arches and chambers. It is built in the Nalukettu style of architecture (traditional Kerala style of architecture). The Mattancherry Palace includes a central courtyard with three temples devoted to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati,' the Kochi royal family's protector deity, Lord Krishna, and Lord Shiva, respectively. A series of metal cups adorn the elaborate hardwood ceiling in the dining hall. Traditional Kerala flooring, which appears like black marble and is made of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices, and egg whites, is rare.
Activities
- You can click photos and record videos inside the palace.
- The palace will give you an idea about the history of Kerela.
- People visit this palace to see the artifacts and establishments.
Tips for visiting
- Do not touch anything inside the palace.
- Taking any kind of food items inside the palace is prohibited.
- Do not forget to look for the murals inside the palace.
Best time to visit
The finest time to visit Kochi is during the winters when the temperature is mild. The weather and temperature fluctuate between 17 and 33 degrees. This time of the year is appropriate for beachgoers, honeymooners, and adventure seekers.
Nearby Atractions
- Paradesi Synagogue
- Saint Francis CSI church
- Santa Cruz Cathedral
- Willingdon Island
- Fort Kochi Beach
Nearby market/ shopping places
- Sea - The Market: This market is famous for its variety of fish.
- Margin Free Market: In this market, you can get all the items you require in your daily life.
- Mattancherry Hypermarket: 2000 supermarket where you can get fresh vegetables and fruits.
- Cheralaayikkadavu Market: This market is also famous for good quality fish and vegetables.
- Street Organic Spice Market: This market is famous for its variety of spices.
Nearby Hotels
- Mandalay Hall
- Ginger House Museum Hotel
- Sealand Hotel
- Hotel Kanyan
- Hotel Ambis
Interesting Facts About Mattancherry Palace
- Murals depicting the Ramayana, a few episodes from the Krishnan Lila, and numerous gods and goddesses in various positions can be found throughout the Mattancherry Palace. Lakshmi reclining on the lotus, Rama's coronation, sleeping Vishnu, Shiva and Parvati seated with Ardhanariswara and other goddesses, and Krishna hoisting Mount Govardhana are only a few of the prominent murals. Veera Kerala Verma's artistic bents of mind are credited with the paintings. The murals are created in the best Hindu temple art traditions, which are both holy and aesthetic.
- Scenes from Kumarasambhavam and other works by Sanskrit poet Kalidasa are depicted in other murals. Weapons, swings, Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins with floral motifs, silver sequined robes, royal umbrellas made of silk and brass, the ceremonial royal sword, and furnishings belonging to the royal family are among the everyday items on show.