Historical Places In Kerala: Amazing Stories of Historic Significance

Kerala, God’s Own place is indeed a tourist destination, which is the most beautiful of all, and we all know it! But not everybody can boast of their knowledge of Kerala in the history of this state.

Once a centre of trade in spices, the Portuguese, Dutch and British also ruled this part of India. Kerala is now a joining place for different cultures and traditions! While these are all part of history now, on the journey to Kerala one can still experience their essence and revive history.

List of 8 Historical Places To Add In Your Kerala Trip:

Reconsider history and discover the best of God’s own country in the past by visiting Kerala’s following historical places:

1. Mattancherry Palace

Mattancherry Palace is also called the ‘Dutch Palace,’ which is a testimony to Kerala’s bygone era. It was built in 1555 as a gift for the King of Cochin by Portuguese princes. It was subsequently refurbished again in 1663 and then was known as the Netherlands Palace.

This quadrangular palace shows the richness of art and architecture of prehistoric Kerala, according to traditional Kerala architecture. It also houses the captivating walls of a Hindu art temple and numerous portraits of the royal Kochi dynasty inspired by Portuguese architecture.

2. Francis Church

St. Francis Church, also known as Fort Cochin, boast of being the oldest church in the nation. A visit to this historical sight in Kerala brings you back to the late 1503s when the Indian subcontinent was home to European colonies.

It was first a wooden building dedicated to Saint Bartholomew, the burial ground of the renowned Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama, who last breathed in Kochi. It has been renovated over the years and centuries. It depicts the prosperity, sanctity, and harmony of the former era.

3. Angelo Strong

Located in Kannur city, Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy in India, built this historic fort around 1505. The fort of Kannur or Kannur Kotta also overlooks the powerful Arab Sea and is best represented by Portuguese architecture.

Although ruled by Dutch, Indian and finally British, it still enjoys the charm of the ancient world and illustrates the glories of the golden history of Kerala. You can visit this historic place in Kerala from 08.00 to 18.00 every day if you plan a trip to Kerala.

4. Bekal Fort

Bekal Fort is the pride of Kerala guarding the coasts of Kasaragod and is the state’s largest historic fort! This castle once guarded the Kasarage’s Royal Palace, a glorious fort built in 1650 AD with historical architectural brilliance.

You should climb a wide floor of stairs to reach the main premises, and when you reach the top you have panoramic views of Bekal Beach and the nearby areas. Built at the beginning, the fort provides a vivid overview of the past era of Kerala.

5. Bastion Bungalow

Bastion Bungalow stands gloriously at River Road in Fort Kochi, one of Kerala’s most promising historical sites. Built before the 16th century, it is one of the oldest fortresses in Kerala, part of the historic bastion fort

Although it lasted much after its creation, the enemies remained untouched. Initially built as a sub-collector district residence by Portuguese rulers in Fort Kochi, the district has become official.

6. Bolghatty Palace

An additional historic site for visitors of Kerala, the palace is a masterpiece of the Netherlands in the district of Ernakulam. Constructed in 1744 as the Dutch Governor’s official residence before the British government conquered the city.

This glorious fortress, located on an island on the Arabian Sea, has now been converted into an ancient hotel and its historic importance remains alive! By taking a ferry ride from Ernakulam jetty, visitors can reach this historical marvel by enjoying its opulence while revisiting the history of Kerala again.

7. Anchuthengu Fort

A stronghold built by the East India Company in the 17th century, the fort of Anjuthengu attracts a large number of visitors to and around Thiruvananthapuram. It is also known as the Anjengo Fort and has been the main trading centre during historic times having lush, evergreen coconut trees.

Anchuthengu Fort has always been a part of God’s own country, be it past or present. It can be accessed from Kadakkavur Railway Station and the International Airport of Thiruvananthapuram, located approximately 36 km from Thiruvananthapuram.

8. Hill Palace

Hill’s palace was once the residence of royal families, elegant and imperial in its own way. Constructed in 1865, the palace is spread over 52 acres, with its 49 historic buildings, displaying royal flavours.

It was converted into a museum and contains numerous antiques and artefacts, mural sculptures and manuscripts. You can also see a collection of royal families on your visit to this historic place in Kerala or the largest museum in the State.

Conclusion

Taking into account the place we have listed only some of these historic wonders. There are more places in Kerala to visit, which really deserve a visit!! Plan your Kerala tour and you can visit, witness and discover the grandeur of many other monuments and institutions which will bring you to know the ancient era of Kerala!

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