Mattancherry Palace (Dutch Palace)
മട്ടാഞ്ചേരി കൊട്ടാരം
A palace given to the Raja of Kochi by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch, housing 16th–17th century Ramayana murals and royal artefacts
Mattancherry Palace was built around 1555 and presented to the Raja of Kochi by the Portuguese. The Dutch carried out repairs in 1663, which is why it is commonly known as the Dutch Palace. Its exterior is a plain two-storey building in the Kerala style. The interior is a museum run by the Archaeological Survey of India, displaying the coronation hall of the Kochi rajas, their portraits, palanquins and costumes.
The most precious treasures are the large murals on the walls of the royal private chambers, which depict stories from the Ramayana and the Puranas. The palace is closed on Fridays and is open about 09:30-17:00. Entry is inexpensive, but photography is not permitted inside.
Opening hours
Sat–Thu 09:30–17:00; closed Fri
Nearby sights
- Paradesi Synagogue & Jew Town
- Kathakali Performance (Kochi)
- Aspinwall House
- Dhobi Khana, Fort Kochi
- Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
- Fort Kochi
- Indo-Portuguese Museum
- St. Francis Church, Kochi