Dutch Palace, Kochi

Cochin is considered the commercial capital of Kerala state in India. Cochin (or Kochi) and Ernakulam are twin cities. In fact, it can be better viewed as a single town. The three main parts of Kochi/Ernakulam are Fort Cochin, Willington Island and Ernakulam.


Mattanchery Palace, popularly called the Dutch Palace, is located at Palace Road, Mattancherry. It was built by the Portuguese in the middle of the 16th century. 


This structure was taken over in 1663 by the Dutch. They added some improvements before presenting it to the Kings of Cochin. Hence, the palace is also called the 'Dutch Palace'.


Dutch palace is famous for some of the best mythological murals in India, particularly in the bed chambers. In one section, the entire story of Ramayana is beautifully depicted on the walls. The palace also contains rare examples of traditional Kerala flooring, which looks like polished black marble but is actually a mixture of burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices and egg whites. The royal ornaments and the King's Seat are also found in this museum.


The palace also houses weapons used by the kings/soldiers and old coins. The roofs are decorated and walls are adorned with murals.


Happy travelling.


Coorg



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