Kuthiramalika Palace Museum, also known as Kuthira Malika, is a beautiful museum located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala. It is a popular tourist attraction and one of the must-visit places in Thiruvananthapuram for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
The palace was built in the 1840s by Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma, the king of Travancore. The name Kuthira Malika literally means ‘Palace of Horses’ in Malayalam, and it is said that the palace got this name because of the 122 horses carved into the wooden brackets that support the roof of the building. The palace has a unique architectural style that is a blend of traditional Kerala style and European style.
The palace is spread across two floors and has a total of 20 rooms, each of which is adorned with beautiful murals, paintings, and other artefacts. The palace is home to a vast collection of artefacts, including ancient musical instruments, traditional Kerala lamps, ivory carvings, and antique furniture.
One of the highlights of the palace is the exquisite collection of traditional Kerala costumes and ornaments that are on display. The costumes are made of fine cotton and silk fabrics and are adorned with intricate embroidery and beadwork. The ornaments are made of gold, silver, and precious stones and include necklaces, earrings, bangles, and anklets.
The palace also houses a rare collection of idols and sculptures, including those of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Saraswati. These sculptures are made of stone, brass, and wood and date back to the 8th century AD.
Another interesting feature of the palace is the Belgian mirrors that are used to decorate the walls. These mirrors were specially imported from Belgium and are made of high-quality glass that reflects light in a unique way.
The palace is also known for its beautiful courtyard, which is surrounded by pillars and has a small pond in the centre. The courtyard is a perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of the palace.
The Kuthiramalika Palace Museum is a must-visit place in Thiruvananthapuram for those interested in history, architecture, and art. The palace provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and is a testament to the artistic and architectural skills of the people of the region.
