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The Indo-Portuguese Museum, located in the placid coastal city of Kochi, encapsulates in it the rich cultural inter Strange between India and Portugal. Established by the late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi, the museum essentially tries to preserve and showcase the serious influence of Portuguese culture on this region. This museum located at Fort Kochi, situated within the compound of the Bishop’s House, has a very different view of the historical accumulation of the Indo-Portuguese art and architectural conglomeration.
Location
Photo: Vyacheslav Algenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Indo-Portuguese Museum is located in Fort Kochi, in the Bishop’s House area. This neighbourhood is well-known for its diverse colonial architecture and cultural vibrancy, thus it is a must-see destination on the way to Kochi. It has several areas, including the Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral. Each area features several displays showcasing Indo-Portuguese Christian artistic tradition like the magnificent silver processional cross, the Indo-Portuguese Monstrance, and numerous designed garments. The museum houses an altar made of teak wood, a 17th-century chasuble, and a processional cross made of silver and wood from the early twentieth century.
Suggested Read: Museum In Kochi
How to Reach There
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Correctly, the Fort Kochi area is linked with other parts of Kochi through roads. You may hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to get to the museum.
By Train: The closest railway station is Ernakulam Junction itself from where you can take a taxi or bus and reach Fort Kochi.
By Sea: One can reach Fort Kochi by ferry from the Ernakulam Boat Jetty, which again is a beautiful and a little more enjoyable way to reach the place.
Places to Visit in and Around Indo-Portuguese Museum
1. Fort Kochi Beach
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the historic city of Kochi within the state of Kerala, Fort Kochi Beach is a place where natural beauty and rich cultural heritage combine in perfect tandem. Renowned for its breathtakingly beautiful sunsets and an atmosphere of tranquillity all around, the beach offers quite a different experience with its golden sands, swaying palm trees, and, ultimately, its famous Chinese fishing nets. Strolling along the beachfront, one feels the imprints of the history of the area reflected in the ruins of the colonial buildings and a vibrant roadmap of the culture.
Location: Fort Kochi
Best Time To Visit: Evening
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Fort Kochi
2. St Francis Church
Photo: Sindhu94 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in the heart of Fort Kochi, St. Francis Church has stood as a tribute to the rich colonial heritage and varied architectural grandeur for which the region is known. This church, perhaps the oldest European-built one in India, serves not only as an important pilgrimage site but also as a principal historical monument that attracts visitors from all around the world. Built in 1503 by the Portuguese, the church has seen the rise and fall of colonial powers the Dutch and the British all of whom left their evergreen mark on this structure and its legacy.
Location: Fort Kochi
Best Time To Visit: Morning
3. Dutch Cemetery
Photo: Sumit Surai / Wikimedia Commons
The cemetery is encircled by walls, with 1724 carved on the entry pillar. It was constructed in the prevalent Dutch architectural style of the time. Hundreds of Dutch and British individuals are correctly mentioned in the 104 epitaphs and monuments. Many of the granite and red laterite monuments do not include crosses. The epitaphs are inscribed in ancient Dutch, and the tombstones range in size. The cemetery is now administered by the Church of South India. A list of individuals buried at Fort Kochi’s St. Francis CSI Church is preserved.
Location: Fort Kochi
Best Time To Visit: Morning
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Kochi At Night
Where to Stay
Photo: Ranjithsiji / Wikimedia Commons
Fort Kochi is a place that has a lot of different types of accommodation, available and affordable to most budgets, from low-budget backpacker hostels to more luxurious heritage hotels. Favourite options would include the Brunton Boatyard and Old Harbour Hotel, both combining great service with glimpses of old colonial Cochin.
Where to Eat
Photo: Shishirdasika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For breakfast, drop into these local eateries such as the Kashi Art Café, or for dinner, try the Seafood places like the Fort House Restaurant. They have local and international cuisines that are very delicious.
Suggested Read: Best Food In Kochi
Best Time to Visit
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit is from October to March to the Indo-Portuguese Museum and Fort Kochi. The weather would be pleasant and hence that period would be good for sightseeing and going outdoors in and around the museum.
The Indo-Portuguese Museum of Kochi is not a museum in the real sense but serves as a window to the past, showcasing the culturally rich historical amalgamation of India and Portugal. With its imposing exhibits to the surroundings of the beautiful Fort Kochi, a visit to this museum has become an experience. Plan a visit to this legendary museum with TripXL and soak yourself in the rich heritage of Kochi.
Cover Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
