Location : Fort Kochi
Main Attractions : Artistic and architectural marvel of the Portuguese era
The Indo-Portuguese Museum of Kochi highlights the conspicuous Portuguese impact in both art and the architecture. The Indo Portuguese museum in Cochin is a recognized center to know the still-surviving Indo-Portuguese Christian Art heritage. The museum is the product of the determined and persistent efforts of late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi. In order to protect his archdiocese, the Bishop established this museum to preserve the priceless collections for future generations.
There are basically five main sections in the museum and they are classified according to the character of the objects displayed there. These five sections are named as Altar, Procession, Civil Life, Treasure and Cathedral. The museum at present houses some marvelous items that are aesthetically appealing and show the strong influence of the Portuguese style of art. The beautiful sculptures, precious metal artifacts and a piece of an old altar made of teak wood are some of the items that are worth a mention. Also, a sculpture of the Franciscans Coat of Arms is worth mentioning and the museum is definitely worth the visit. One can very proudly say that the Indo-Portuguese Museum is undeniably one of the representatives of the rich legacy of Indo-Portuguese culture and artistic influence.
How to Reach
By Air : The nearest airports are at Trivandrum and Cochin and Fort Kochi is easily accessible from these two airports.
By Rail : The three railway junctions in Cochin are Ernakulam town, Cochin harbor and Ernakulam junction. Hire local transport from either of these places to reach Fort Kochi.
By Road : Cochin is well connected by a wide network of roads and this museum can be easily reached from anywhere in Cochin.