Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutuch Palace is one of the prime tourist attractions of Kochi. It was originally built by the Portuguese in 1557 and then was gifted to Raja Veera Kerala Varma, the ruler of Cochin. Later, in the year 1663, it was renovated by the Dutch. Located at a distance of around 12 km from Ernakulam city, this palace is an excellent timeless example of Portuguese architecture with Oriental touch, which makes it a unique architectural marvel. The significant highlight of this palace is the outstanding collection of mural paintings, depicting events from Ramayana, Mahabharata and Puranas. These paintings are artistic and colorful in their representation and are truly remarkable to look at
This two-storey quadrangular building has a small temple in the central courtyard, which is dedicated to the deity Palayannur Bhagwati. There are two temples too in the complex, one dedicated to Lord Krishan and the other to Lord Shiva. The upper floor consists of a museum as well as a bed chamber, a coronation hall, ladies chamber, dining hall along with other rooms. The museum houses a great collection of portraits of the Kochi rulers, palanquins, weapons, dresses, 3 royal umbrellas, canopy, stamps, coins and more.
Timings: 10:00 am – 17:00 pm (closed on Fridays)
Entry Free: INR 2 (No free for children below 15 years)
Nearest railway station: Ernakulam railway station (10 km)
Nearest airport: Cochin International Airport (42 km)
