Padmanabhapuram Palace
July 2, 2009
The Padmanabhapuram Palace is a living example 0f traditional Kerala architecture. The palce though owned by the Government of Kerala is entirely located in tamilnadu in the town of Thuckalay. THe palce dates back to 1601 A.D but many other structures within the complex are much older . The palce itself is within the Padmanbhapuram Fort. The major structures within the palace include:
1) Mantrasala : It is the chamber where the king meets his council.
2) Thai Kottaram : It means the Mother’s Palace
3) Nataksala : It means the place where Art and other forms were presented.
4) A four-storeyed building at the centre of the Palace complex
5) Thekee Kottaram which means the Southern Palace
All the structures contains exquisite works which highlight the skilled craftmanship of the artisians at that time. There is an old tower clock which is still in working condition. the palace is adorned with lattice works and adorned with mural paintings depicting scenes from the puranas and rural life. Rich wooden carvings are the highlights of the Thai Kottaram there is a room called the ekantha mandap which again is richly decorated. the natakashala is adorned with ganite pillars and the floors are shiny black. the royal bedroom was within thefour storeyed building and the upper floor was the royal place of worship. There is a secret passage from the palace for the family to escape incase of an atack to another palce located miles away called the Charottu Kottaram. There is a room filled with chinese jara and another one with weapons used during those days. A gallery of paintings are added features.
Very Nice Article
on June 6th, 2010