Royal Palace Museum
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Label : Top Attraction
Tags : Museum
Timings : 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Address : Rajakrisnapuram, Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu 613001
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Royal Palace Museum, Thanjavur Overview
The Royal Palace Museum, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu, India, is a treasure trove of history and artistry. The museum is part of the expansive Thanjavur Palace complex, which also includes the famous Saraswathi Mahal Library and an art gallery. The Royal Museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, paintings, books, and memorabilia that provide insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Royal Palace Museum Highlights
1. Royal Objects and Artifacts
On display in the museum are an array of royal objects, including clothing, headgear, and hunting weapons. These items offer a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the royalty that once inhabited the (Read More) palace. Notably, the upper floor of the museum features an intriguing exhibit—a skeleton of a 92-feet whale that washed ashore near Tranquebar in 1955.
2. Darbar Hall Paintings
The Darbar Hall within the museum is adorned with paintings that narrate stories from the epic Ramayana. The walls and ceilings are covered with detailed stucco figures of gods and goddesses, showcasi (Read More)ng the artistic brilliance of the craftsmen from the region. The intricate depictions add a cultural and mythological dimension to the museum.
3. Thanjavur Art Gallery
The Thanjavur Art Gallery, officially known as the "Raja Raja Chola Art Gallery" and locally referred to as "Thanjavur Kalaikoodam," is housed within the Thanjavur Palace. This gallery is a haven for (Read More)art enthusiasts, featuring an exquisite collection of ancient sculptures and coins. The bronze sculptures of Hindu deities, ranging from the 9th to the 19th century A.D., are a highlight. The sculptures offer insights into early Indian lifestyle, depicting clothing, ornaments, and hairstyles of the time.
4. Sculptures and Coins
The artifacts in the Art Gallery are displayed in the hall that was once the Kings' royal court (Durbar Hall). The walls and ceiling of the Durbar Hall are adorned with paintings and statuettes, creat (Read More)ing a captivating visual experience. The gallery houses ancient bronze statues from the Chola period, Vijayanagara period, and later periods. Stone sculptures and bronze idols are displayed, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of the region.
5. Bhikshatana Murti Sculpture
One notable sculpture is the Bhikshatana Murti, depicting Shiva in a unique mood. Shiva is shown standing as a mendicant, with a dancing deer beside him and a shallow bowl-like object in his hand. The (Read More) sculpture narrates the mythological story of Shiva's transformation into a mendicant, highlighting themes of sin and redemption.
6. Mysore Tipu Sultan's Copper Coins
The Art Gallery also features a collection of ancient coins, including copper coins minted by Mysore's Tipu Sultan. These coins, with an elephant figure on one side and Arabic numerals on the other, p (Read More)rovide a glimpse into the historical currency used during Tipu Sultan's regime.
7. Baleen Whale Skeleton
A unique exhibit in the Arsenal tower is the skeleton of a Baleen whale, a massive creature that washed ashore near Tranquebar. The 92-feet skeleton is an interesting sight, although its preservation (Read More)may not be perfect.
8. Durbar Hall & Sangita Mahal
The Maratha Durbar Hall, a prominent attraction within the palace, features portraits of Maratha rulers and depictions of gods and goddesses. The Sangita Mahal, associated with music and dance under r (Read More)oyal patronage, showcases the cultural vibrancy that once flourished in the palace.
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