Krishnapuram Palace in Kerela
An archaeological museum exhibiting collection of country’s artefacts. The site remains open from 9.00 – 17:00, except on Mondays. Krishnapuram is 47 km away from Alappuzha, 2 – 3 km from Kayamkulam railway station. Kerala has royal palaces that were erstwhile princely domains. Krishnapuram Palace is among these palaces, a palace close to Sree Krishnaswamy.
History reckons this double-storeyed palace for kings of Kayamkulam dynasty, a typical palace design, which is akin to that of rulers in ancient Kerala. Many ancillary units of Krishnapuram got demolished and only a main palace structure remains intact. There are no records stating the period of its construction. In old times, princess of Kayamkulam ruling family stayed at a place north of Kayamkulam while men stayed at Krishnapuram Palace.
Krishnapuram was built on the period of King Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma (1729-1758 CE) following the annexation of Kayamkulam with erstwhile state of Travancore. Krishnapuram easily catches attention of its architectural highlights which include a courtyard, thick-framed doors, narrow corridors & stairways.
A highlight among the sights in Krishnapuram Palace is the mural depicting Gajendramoksham or Salvation of elephant, 18th CE, elaborated murals in Kerala with a combination of expression and colours.This palace with sixteen blocks is also famous for museum which displays paintings, megalithic remains, coins, sculptures and artifacts in bronze. Among museum highlight, a Bible in Sanskrit, weapons, inscriptions at stone, antiques & many articles are on exhibition.