Some Historical Sites and Monuments of Kerala

Summary

Detailing some of Kerala’s notable monuments, this article describes the Irikkal Palace at Trichur and other historical sites associated with the Vadakkunnithan temple. The author explains that visitors to the palace followed ancient customs such as washing their face and feet at a stone trough before entering, and he records the dimensions and layout of the palace, including stone walls, courtyards and ceremonial gateways. Accounts from local histories and inscriptions are used to reconstruct the history of the palace and to explain its connection with royal processions and temple festivals. The essay highlights the architectural features of Kerala palaces, such as their timber construction, sloping roofs and intricate carvings, and emphasises the need to preserve these structures as part of the region’s cultural heritage.