In the lively neighborhood of Mattancherry in Kochi stands a double-storied Portuguese architectural marvel called the Mattancherry Palace or Dutch Palace. The Palace was presented to the King of Kochi, Veera Kerala Varma in 1555 by the Portuguese. It underwent major repairs at the hands of the Dutch a century later in 1663 and since then came to be known as the Dutch Palace. The Palace is a must-visit place for all, as its origin, evolution, stories and secrets are sure to keep you captivated.
Table of Contents
History Of Mattancherry Palace
As mentioned earlier, it was a gift to the Raja of Kochi to compensate for the damage done to a temple nearby. However after a major renovation the Dutch took control over the Palace. It was only after India got Independence, the palace became the property of the Indian government. In 1985 the Palace was converted into a museum and later in 2007, the Archeological Survey of India started restoration work of this palace to meet international standards.
Book Now: Fort Cochin Heritage Tour
Architectural Details
The Palace was built using traditional Kerala style of architecture called the ‘Nalukettu’. Nalukettu is a square or rectangular structure with a central courtyard. Here in the palace, the rectangular structure is divided into four separate wings that open out to the courtyard in the middle. There is a small temple dedicated to Pazhayannur Bhagavathy (patron goddess of the royal family) right in the middle of the courtyard. There are two more temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna on either side of the palace. The two floors of the palace have elaborate and spacious rooms that are decorated with European style arches. In short, Mattancherry Palace is a splendid example of the colonial and Kerala style of architecture.
Things To Look Out For At The Palace
- The Mural painting on the walls of the first floor has scenes from Hindu epics such as Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Kalidasa’s works.
- Life-size portraits of the Cochin Kings in their regal attire and accessories from 1864 to 1932 that are painted with oil on canvas.
- Collection of various weapons (swords, daggers, axes, spears, shields, guns, and cannons) and coins (gold fanams, silver rupees, copper kasus, and foreign currencies) used by the Cochin Kings and their enemies.
- The ornate wooden ceiling of Dining Hall is elaborately decorated with brass cups.
- Dresses and artilleries which belonged to the royal family.
- 17th and 18th-century Dutch drawings with plans laid out for Cochin.
Other Important Information
Location: X755+8P9, Mattancherry, Kochi, Kerala 682002
Mattancherry Palace Timings: Open on all days except on Fridays between 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Mattancherry Palace Entry Fee: Adult: INR 5 and Free entry for children below 15 years.
Duration of Visit: 2 Hours
Best Time to Visit: For pleasant and moderate climate conditions, the months of January, February, March, October, November, and December are best.
Nearby Attractions: Jewish Synagogue, Jew Town, Spice Market, St. Francis Church, Subhash Park and Fort Kochi Beach.
How To Reach Mattancherry Palace Kochi
Kochi being a major city, it’s well connected by all modes of transportation. Here’s how you can reach the Palace.
By Air: The international airport is at Nedumbassery which is about 22 km from Kochi. There are frequent flights connecting all major cities in India to Kochi.
By Rail: Kochi has three stations, Ernakulam Junction, Ernakulam Town and Cochin Harbor Terminus which are about 10 km from Mattancherry. For latest train information and booking you can visit the IRCTC website.
By Bus: Kochi has a well-established network of buses (both private and government owned buses). Get to the KSRTC Central Bus Station from here you can get buses easily.
Things To Keep In Mind While Visiting
- Carry a valid ID proof.
- Hire a guide to understand better the history and the murals inside the palace.
- Keep your mobiles and cameras away as photography is prohibited inside the palace.
- Check the holiday schedule before visiting as the Palace is closed on public holidays.
- Make sure you enjoy the display of historical artifacts and paintings only with your eyes and not hands, frequent touching can damage it.
- Avoid taking in any kind of food items as they are not allowed inside the palace.
Also Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Kochi
With the palace being the historical and cultural treasure of Kochi, undeniably it becomes one of the must visit places in Kochi. So come experience the charm of Mattancherry and also the beauty of Kerala architecture with a visit to Kochi’s great Mattancherry Palace with our guide.
FAQs
The palace is famous for its paintings, portraits, murals, and artifacts from the Kings of Kochi.
The Palace flooring that looks like polished black marble is made using a mixture of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, egg whites and plant juices.
Men and women should be preferably dressed in modest clothes that are not revealing.
