Kerala Indo-Portuguese Museum
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is located in Fort Kochi, Kerala, India. Founded by the former Bishop of Kochi, the Late Dr Joseph Kureethra, the museum offers a journey through Kerala's history and showcases the rich heritage of Indo-Portuguese art, culture, and architecture through its diverse collection of artefacts. It is nestled within the premises of the Bishop's House near the historic Fort Cochin area, renowned for its colonial past and architectural marvels.
The museum is segmented into five primary sections: Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral, each housing carefully curated artefacts. These include a significant assortment of coins, statues, vestments, and clergy cassocks. The museum serves as a tribute to the historical Portuguese impact and highlights the fusion of Indo-European art and culture.
The basement of the Indo-Portuguese Museum houses remnants of the 16th-century Portuguese-built Fort Immanuel. Among the remarkable artefacts in the museum's collection are the teak altar from the 16th-century Church of Our Lady, a 19th-century chasuble from the Bishop’s House in Fort Kochi, and a processional cross from the 17th-century Santa Cruz Cathedral in Fort Kochi. Additionally, the museum features a Portuguese monstrance from the 18th to 19th centuries, ancient sculptures, metal objects, and various items from the Portuguese era. Jew Town and Jew Synagogue, Fort Kochi Beach, Mattancherry Palace, and St. Francis Church, are the popular tourist attractions near Indo-Portuguese Museum.
Entry Time:
Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday: 10 AM to 1 PM & 2 PM to 6 PM
Wednesday & Friday: 2 PM to 6 PM
Sunday: 10 AM to 1 PM
Closed on Mondays and Public Holidays.
Visiting hours:
1 to 2 Hrs
Entry fee:
For Indians: ₹ 10
For Children: ₹ 5
For Foreigners: ₹ 25
Entry is free on the first Thursday of every month.
Disclaimer: Please note that prices are subject to change. It is advisable to verify with the museum authorities.
Best Time to Visit:
October to February
Famous For:
Indo-Portuguese Museum is renowned for its collection of artefacts and exhibits showcasing the Indo-Portuguese cultural, architectural, and historical heritage.
How to reach Kerala Indo-Portuguese Museum:
By Air : Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, 43 Km away from the Indo-Portuguese Museum.
By Train :Ernakulam North Railway Station is the nearest railway station, 11.9 Km away from the Indo-Portuguese Museum.
By Road :The Indo-Portuguese Museum is easily accessible by road. You can choose private transportation, take a bus, or hire a cab to reach the museum.
FAQ:
1.Where is the Indo-Portuguese Museum situated?
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is situated in Fort Kochi, Kerala, India.
2.How much time is required to explore the Indo-Portuguese Museum?
Visitors are advised to spend a minimum of 1 to 2 hours at the Indo-Portuguese Museum to fully explore the exhibits and delve into the history of the Portuguese presence in India.
3.What can visitors expect to see at the Indo-Portuguese Museum?
At the Indo-Portuguese Museum, visitors can expect to see a rich collection of artefacts and exhibits showcasing the Indo-Portuguese cultural heritage, including religious artefacts, sculptures, artwork, intricate altarpieces, liturgical items, antique furniture, and other historical items dating back to the Portuguese colonial period in India.