Mattancherry Palace

The palace is quadrangular in shape, having a Nalukettu style of architecture (traditional Kerala style of architecture) with a hint of European influence in the arches and the chambers. The Mattancherry Palace has a courtyard in the middle consisting of three temples dedicated to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavati', the protective goddess of the Kochi royal family, Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva respectively. The dining hall has an ornate wooden ceiling decorated with a series of brass cups. There are rare examples of traditional Kerala flooring which is a mixture of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices and egg whites and looks like black marble.

The Mattancherry palace has a large number of murals illustrating the Ramayana, a few scenes from the Krishnan Lila and various gods and goddesses in different positions. Some of the notable murals include Lakshmi seated on the lotus, the coronation of Rama, sleeping Vishnu, Shiva and Parvati seated with Ardhanariswara and other goddesses, and Krishna lifting Mount Govardhana. The paintings are attributed to the artistic bends of mind of Veera Kerala Verma. The murals are executed in the best traditions of Hindu temple art, which are religious and decorative.

Other murals depict scenes from Kumarasambhavam and other works of the Sanskrit poet Kalidasa. Everyday items such as weapons, swings, Dutch maps of old Kochi, royal palanquins with floral designs, silver sequined gowns, royal umbrellas make of silk and brass, the ceremonial royal sword and furniture belonging to the royal family are also on display here.

To reach the Mattancherry Palace, you can hire cars, taxis, ferries and autorickshaws. You can even opt for hired bicycles or enjoy the 30-minute walk along the busy Bazaar Road to reach the palace.