Some Historical Sites and Monuments of Kerala

Summary

This descriptive essay surveys several historical sites and monuments in Kerala, illustrating the region’s rich architectural and cultural heritage. Beginning with prehistoric megalithic dolmens and rock‑cut tombs scattered across the Malabar hills, the author traces the evolution of sacred architecture through the early medieval period. The article highlights notable temples such as the Thirunelli Temple in Wayanad, famous for its granite pillars and intricate carvings, and the unique circular temple at Sree Vallabha in Thiruvalla. It describes the influence of Chera, Chola and later Vijayanagara styles on temple plans, emphasising the distinctive Kerala style with its sloping tiled roofs and wooden carvings. Forts and palaces also feature prominently. The author recounts the history of the Bekal Fort overlooking the Arabian Sea and the Dutch‑built Bolgatty Palace near Cochin. The Mattancherry Palace, gifted by the Portuguese to the rulers of Cochin in the sixteenth century and later renovated by the Dutch, is praised for its murals depicting scenes from the Rāmāyaṇa and Mahābhārata. Attention is given to early mosques such as the Cheraman Juma Masjid, one of the earliest Islamic sites in the subcontinent, reflecting Kerala’s long‑standing maritime connections with Arabia. Throughout, the article interweaves architectural description with historical narrative, explaining how these monuments testify to the cosmopolitan character of Kerala’s past. Trade with Romans, Arabs and Chinese brought wealth and new artistic motifs, while the Bhakti movement spurred temple building. The author underscores the urgent need to preserve these structures in the face of decay and modernisation.