Dutch Palace Treasure Trove of Kochi Culture

The Dutch Palace also known as Mattancherry Palace is one of the popular tourist attractions of Mattancherry, Kochi

. It is one of the known attractions of Kochi visited by number of tourists round the year. This beautiful palace was built by the Portuguese and gifted to the Raja of Kochi Veera Kerala Varma in 1555 AD. Later in 1663 several renovations work from Dutch designated it with the name of Dutch Palace.

This is a two-storied palace built around central courtyard with an architectural design of traditional Kerala known as 'nalukettus'. The entrance of this palace has two arches which are in Portuguese style. From outside the palace look like European style having masonry walls, round headed windows and doors with sloping tiled roof and wooden balconies.

The interior of this palace is entirely a different world which showcases fine blend traditional India and Kerala arts. The interior of this palace is plated with wood with sharp color and design contrast. The beautiful ceilings and painted walls are the most alluring features of this palace which fascinates tourists during their visit.

The floor of this palace is finest example of Kerala traditional flooring which is made up of mixture burned coconut shells, plant juices, egg white, lime and charcoal. Some of the other attractions of this palace are the Central Hall on the upper storey, once used for the coronation ceremony of Cochin's Rajas. It is known for its beautifully carved wooden ceiling. The Dining Hall's famous for its ornamented ceilings with a series of brass cups.

The interior wall of the palace is adorned with series of murals depicting several mythological scenes from the Ramayana, the Mahabharata and the Puranic legends related to Shiva, Vishnu, Krishna, Kumara, and Durga. These wall paintings are famous for their artistic values presented through design and rich color combinations. The paintings cover nearly 1000 square feet showcasing wide range of themes from the 'Puthra Kameshti Yagam' to Rama's return to Ayodya after defeating Ravana.

The first floor of this palace is converted into museum in 1985 showcasing the rich culture of Kochi. The museum comprises the coronation hall, bed chamber, women chamber, palanquins, dresses and weapons to royal umbrellas, canopy, stamps and coins.

Dutch Palace Treasure Trove of Kochi Culture

By: Manish Sinha

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