Every single Malayali can be proud of the beautiful history of Kerala. Be it language, food, culture, or art forms, the list is never-ending. Kerala’s most valuable and well-preserved historical heritage is one of the most significant factors in this list. Each of the districts in Kerala is abundant with historical places. Thrissur, the cultural capital of Kerala, is also not far behind for its various historical places. Through this article, let us explore some of the historical places in Thrissur.
Shakthan Thampuran Palace
If you wish to enjoy the fascinating sight of Kerala and Dutch architecture, Shakthan Thampuran Palace, located at a distance of 2 km from Thrissur town, is the best place for you to explore. Shakthan Thampuran was the ruler of the kingdom of Kochi. He is said to be the architect of Thrissur city and the person who started the great Thrissur Pooram. The archaeological department converted this palace into a museum. It is rich in ancient architecture. You can also see ancient bronze and granite statues, coin collections, epigraphy collections, megalithic collections, and the earliest household utensils. Shakthan Thampuran Palace is also famous for the old Sarpakavu in its premises.
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Archeological Museum
Museums are always a place of interest for history enthusiasts. Each state in Kerala has fantastic museums with a wide variety of historical collections. What makes the Thrissur archaeological museum unique is its strong cultural roots. The wide range of antic collections within the museum reflects the glory of Thrissur. This museum complex is situated in the compound of Thrissur zoo. Excavated materials from the Indus valley and Harappa civilizations, materials from megalithic sites, stone-age tools, megalithic collections such as Nannangadi, earthen pots, etc. are some of the major attractions.
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Kerala Kalamandalam
Kerala Kalamandalam, situated in Cheruthuruthy in Thrissur, is the storehouse of art forms in Kerala. It is one of the largest institutions in India which preserves the artforms of the land by training and performing the artforms. The Kalamandalam, which was formed as an art society in the year 1930 by the great poet Vallathol Narayana Menon and Mukunda Raja has evolved throughout the years. Now it has attained the position of Deemed to be University for Art and Culture.
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It offers training in various art forms such as Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Kudiyattam, Thullal, etc. As the training is in the form of a traditional Gurukulam system, you can witness separate Kalaris (classrooms) for each art form. The Koothambalam of Kerala Kalamandalam is well known for its traditional architecture and aesthetics. If you’re an artist or a lover of art, Kerala Kalamandalam is the must-visit place for you to relish your love and passion for traditional art forms.
Kudakkallu
Kudakallu (which translates to umbrella stone) is located in the Ariyannur, Chowannur, Porkulam, Kandanassey, Kattakampal, and Eyyal areas in the Thrissur district. These stones are huge megalithic kinds of monuments that are said to be the burial sites of the prehistoric period. There is another place in Thrissur called Chermanangad, where 69 megalithic monuments are spread over a small area. This area is known as Kudakkallu Parambu, and it consists of megaliths of different shapes.
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Kottapuram Fort
Kottapuram Fort is situated in Kodungallur on the shores of the Kottapuram river. The fort was constructed by the Portuguese, even though its establishment is unknown. According to history, this fort was destroyed by Tipu Sultan and Zamorin during the war. What we see today are the relics of the fort. The view of this historical place on the shore of the Kottapuram river is surreal.
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Peruvanam Palace
Peruvanam palace is a Naalukettu mansion built in traditional Kerala architecture style. The palace is spread across three acres of land. Located close to the famous Peruvanam Shiva temple, this palace has a significant place in the history of Thrissur Pooram and the traditions associated with it. The palace compound is home to various big trees and plants. The names of some of these trees are still unknown. The palace which was under the governance of Travancore Devaswom is not well maintained. So, the premises of the palace is in pathetic condition. However, the sight of this place will definitely take you back in time.
Munimada
Munimada is the caves found in the different regions of Thrissur district such as Kandanassery, Eyal, and Kattakampal. These caves date back to 2 or 3 BC and are evidence of early human settlements in these areas. Some of the experts claim that these caves were the houses of Buddhist and Jainist monks. Although, the existence of these monuments is a matter of curiosity for people.
If you’re a person who loves to feel the ambience of historical places, these are some of the must-visit historical places in Thrissur. These locations are not just places to visit. But these are the pieces of evidence of the glorious past of our land.
