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Exploring the Historical Splendor of Mattancherry Palace: The Dutch Palace in Kochi

History :

The Mattancherry Palace, commonly referred to as the Dutch Palace, is nestled in Mattancherry, Kochi. This Portuguese-constructed palace houses an impressive array of Kerala murals which vividly capture Hindu temple art. Also on display are portraits & exhibits of the Rajas of Kochi. Gifted by the Portuguese around 1555 to appease the Cochin king after a temple was plundered, it underwent significant renovations by the Dutch in 1663, earning its nickname. Subsequent modifications have been made by the royals themselves. Today, this palace doubles as a portrait gallery showcasing Cochin Rajas and is renownED for some of India’s finest mythological murals rooted deeply in Hindu temple traditions.

Dutch Palace

Architecture & Design :

Built in a quadrangular shape, The palace's design follows the traditional Kerala Nallukettu style characterized by a central courtyard. At the courtyard’s heart stands a modest temple dedicated to 'Pazhayannur Bhagavathi', revered goddess of the Kochi royal family. Flanking the Palace are two additional temples: one honoring Lord Krishna and another for Lord Siva. Hallmarks of European design influence can be noted in features such as arch styles and room proportions. Noteworthy too is the Dining Hall’s elaborately carved wooden ceiling, embellished with brass cups. The flooring is another highlight— crafted from burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices and egg whites—it mimics polished black marble.

Visiting Information

Hours: 10 AM to 5 PM daily.

Cameras: Prohibited.

Closed on Fridays & National holidays.

Why Special?

Central among its attractions is that it remains home to Pazhayannur Bhagavathi, deity protectress of the royal lineage. Showcasing traditional architecture with a courtyard Nalukettu style at its core; visitors are often captivated by its structural elegance.

The murals are particularly renowned—they illustrate pivotal scenes from Indian epics like Mahabharata & Ramayana aside depictions of notable Hindu deities including Guruvayurappan (Lord Krishna). Other displays feature life-sized portraits which tread back to royal histories since 1864 alongside regal artifacts like coins issued by Cochin kings, swords and ceremonial arms.

What You Will Experience

Maintained meticulously through years, this historical palace offers tranquility amidst its cool environs; walking through you’ll find ancient traditions alive within wall paintings & various exhibits. Every detail from wooden ceilings to mural-inscribed walls tends to impress many—a truly informative encounter furnished with descriptions im multiple languages ensures no detail goes unnoticed. A visit here indeed leaves most with a deeper appreciation for Kerala's rich historical tapestry.

Best Time To Visit : Mid November-February.

How to Reach Dutch Palace? :

By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to the Dutch Palace Kochi which is situated at a distance of 40.9 Km.

By Rail - Ernakulam Railway Station is the nearest railway station to the Dutch Palace Kochi which is situated at a distance of 10 Km.

By Bus - Ernakulam Bus Station is the nearest bus station to the Dutch Palace Kochi which is situated at a distance of 11.4 Km.

FAQs about Mattancherry Palace :

Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, was constructed by the Portuguese around 1555 and gifted to the Cochin king to appease him after a temple was plundered. The Dutch renovated it in 1663, giving it its popular name. It has since undergone modifications by the royal family and now serves as a portrait gallery showcasing Cochin Rajas and renowned Hindu temple murals.

Built in a quadrangular Nallukettu style typical of traditional Kerala architecture, Mattancherry Palace features a central courtyard with a temple dedicated to Pazhayannur Bhagavathi. The palace also includes two additional temples honouring Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. European design influences are evident in the arches and room proportions. The Dining Hall's wooden ceiling, adorned with brass cups, and the polished black marble-like flooring made from burned coconut shells, charcoal, lime, plant juices, and egg whites are architectural highlights.

The palace is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM, It is closed on Fridays and national holidays, and cameras are prohibited inside the palace.

Mattancherry Palace is special for its rich historical and cultural significance. It houses some of India's finest mythological murals depicting scenes from the Mahabharata and Ramayana, as well as Hindu deities like Lord Krishna. The palace also features life-sized portraits of Cochin Rajas dating back to 1864, along with regal artifacts such as coins, swords, and ceremonial arms. The presence of Pazhayannur Bhagavathi, the protectress deity of the royal lineage, adds to its spiritual importance.

Visitors can expect a serene and informative experience at Mattancherry Palace. The meticulously maintained palace offers a glimpse into Kerala's rich historical tapestry through its ancient murals, wooden ceilings, and various exhibits. Descriptions in multiple languages ensure that visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of the palace's historical and cultural significance. The tranquility and cool environs of the palace provide a peaceful retreat, leaving visitors with a deeper appreciation of Kerala's heritage.

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