HISTORICAL PLACES TO VISIT IN KERALA

The Mattancherry Palace, also known as the Dutch Palace, is a historical palace located in the city of Kochi, in the state of Kerala, India. The palace was built by the Portuguese in 1555 as a gift to the king of Cochin and was later renovated by the Dutch in 1663. The palace is a blend of traditional Kerala architecture and Portuguese influences and is a beautiful example of the region's rich history and cultural heritage.
The palace features a quadrangular layout and showcases the richness of art and architecture from pre-historic Kerala. The palace is renowned for its captivating murals that depict Hindu temple art and portraits of Kochi's royal dynasty. The palace serves as a witness to the bygone era and is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of Kerala.

St. Francis Church, also known as Fort Cochin Church, is a historic landmark in Kerala and is considered to be the oldest European church in India. The church was built in 1503, during a time when European colonies were flourishing in the Indian subcontinent. The church has an important place in the history of Kerala as it was the original burial site of the famous Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama who died in Kochi. The church was initially constructed as a wooden structure dedicated to St. Bartholomew and has been renovated and refurbished over the years.
The church showcases the influence of Portuguese architecture and culture in Kerala, and also serves as a reminder of the prosperity, sanctity, and harmony of a bygone era. The St. Francis Church is a must-visit for history enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about the cultural heritage of Kerala. The Church remain open to visitors all days of the week, and guided tours are available.

The St. Angelo Fort, also known as Kannur Fort or Kannur Kotta, is a historic fort located in the city of Kannur, Kerala. It was built around 1505 by Dom Francisco de Almeida, the first Portuguese Viceroy of India. The fort overlooks the Arabian Sea and is a fine example of Portuguese architecture. Though the fort has been ruled by the Dutch, Indian rulers, and finally the British, it has managed to retain its old world charm and stands as a testament to the glories of Kerala's golden history. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its rich history between 08:00AM to 06:00PM every day. This is a popular spot for history buffs and anyone looking to learn more about the cultural heritage of Kerala.

The Bekal Fort is a historic fort located in Kasaragod, Kerala and is considered to be the largest fort in the state. It was built in 1650 AD and has architectural brilliance that showcases the skills of the builders of the past. The fort was once used to guard the royal palace of Kasaragod and played an important role in the region's history.
To reach the main premises, visitors must climb a set of broad stairs. Once at the top, the fortress offers spectacular views of the Bekal Beach and the surrounding regions. Though the fort is a relic from the past, it still offers a lively glimpse into the bygone era of Kerala's history. Visitors can explore the fort and learn about its rich history and enjoy the scenic views around. The Fort remains open to visitors all days of the week and guided tours are available.

The Bastion Bungalow is a historic landmark located on River Road in Fort Kochi, Kerala. It is a part of the historic Bastion Fort, which was built prior to the 16th century and is considered to be one of the oldest forts in Kerala. The fort has endured a lot throughout history, but managed to stay untouched by enemies, one of the most notable being a fiercest ambush made by the British in 1806.
Originally built by Portuguese rulers, it now serves as the official residence of the district Sub-Collector in Fort Kochi. The Bastion Bungalow is a must-see for history buffs and anyone interested in learning about the cultural heritage of Kerala. Although it serves as a residence, it's open for visitors during specific hours on certain days. It's a good idea to check beforehand with local authority to visit the Bungalow and get permission if necessary.

The Bolghatty Palace is a historical palace located in Ernakulam district of Kerala. It is a masterpiece of the Dutch empire and was built in 1744 as the official residence of the Dutch Governor. It was later conquered by the British government. The palace is situated on Bolghatty Island on the Arabian Sea and has now been converted into a heritage hotel.
Despite the transformation, the palace retains its historical essence and importance and continues to be a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take a ferry ride from Ernakulam jetty to reach the island and explore the palace. The palace is a great spot for history buffs and offers a glimpse into the opulence of the past. The palace is open for visits during certain hours on specific days. It is recommended to check beforehand with the local authority for the schedule and to get permission if necessary.

Anjuthengu Fort, also known as Anjengo Fort, is a 17th century fort built by the East India Company in the state of Kerala, India. The fort is in Anjuthengu, which is around 36 km from the city of Thiruvananthapuram. It is a popular tourist destination and attracts many visitors to Thiruvananthapuram and nearby places. The fort was a primary trading point during the historic times, and it was surrounded by lush and evergreen coconut groves.
The fort is a great spot to visit for history buffs and it offers a glimpse into the past and how it was integral part of God’s own country. The fort is open for visits during certain hours on specific days. It is recommended to check beforehand with the local authority for the schedule and to get permission if necessary. The fort is well connected by road and can be accessed by Kadakkavur railway station or Thiruvananthapuram international airport.

Hill Palace is a historic palace located in Kochi, Kerala, India. It was built in 1865 and served as the residence of Kochi's royal families. The palace is spread over 52 acres and features 49 traditional buildings that showcase the architectural and design styles of the past. Today, the palace serves as a museum, and it is the largest museum in the state.
Inside the palace, you can find a wide range of artefacts, including murals, sculptures, manuscripts, and other antique pieces that were once owned by the royal families. The palace also houses a collection of personal belongings of the royal families, providing visitors with an insight into their lives and the history of the region.
Visiting Hill Palace is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of Kerala, the Palace is open at certain hours and closed on specific days, and it is recommended to check the schedules and to get permission if needed before visiting.

These are some of the historical places in Kerala that showcase the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the state. Each of these places has its own unique history and significance, and visiting them can offer a glimpse into the past and provide a deeper understanding of the state's evolution over time. It's also noted that most of the historical places are also served as tourist spot, they are not only visited by history enthusiasts but also general tourists who are interested to know the heritage of the state.

The Palakkad Fort, also known as Tipu's Fort, is a notable historic fortification located in the city of Palakkad in Kerala. It was built by Haider Ali in 1766, and later conquered by the British East India Company in 1784. The fort's architecture is a blend of Hindu and Muslim styles, with the walls made of laterite and granite. Today, the fort is a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India and is open to visitors, who can explore the fort's history and architecture.

Conclusion:

only ten historical sites in Kerala have been listed. However, there are many other noteworthy places to visit that offer a glimpse into the state's rich past. By planning a trip to Kerala, you'll have the opportunity to explore and experience the grandeur of various historical monuments and establishments.