Indo Portuguese Museum

Indo Portuguese Museum.

The Indo Portuguese Museum is situated amid the premises of the House of Bishop in Kochi. The Indo Portuguese Museum displays various artifacts that were collected from some other churches. This museum maintains the rich heritage of Indo-Portuguese culture, art, and architecture of Kerala, and one of the best places to visit in Kochi. This museum carries the story of the previous era when the Portuguese had a strong influence in this region. This Indo-Portuguese Museum was the dream and aim of Doctor Kureethra who served the claim of the Bishop of Kochi during that particular period. 

History

The Indo Portuguese Museum is the center that provides a concise knowledge about the Indo Portuguese culture and art. The Indo Portuguese Museum is a must to visit among the Kochi tourist places. The Portuguese left an incredible mark on the entire history and culture. The influence of Portuguese art and culture is completely displayed in this museum. Late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, who was the Bishop of Kochi, made this museum intending to display and protect the Portuguese influence and Portuguese cultural heritage. The individual efforts of the Bishop of Kochi and late Doctor Kureethra have a significant role in the formation of the Indo Portuguese Museum. For these legend’s influence, present and future generations can experience and realize the Indo Portuguese Christian Art heritage. This museum is a popular place to visit in Kochi tourism.

Features

The Indo Portuguese Museum features an Altar Display Hall that displays the Portuguese impacts on Fort Kochi and other surrounding areas. There are five sections of Indo Portuguese Museum; Altar, Procession, Treasure, Cathedral, and Civil life. One can become acquainted with the piece of the alter, that is made in teak wood, in the 16th century from many places. The alter that belonged from the Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen. The chasuble, from Fort Kochi, and Bishop’s House.

The Processional cross that is a combination of wood and silver, from Fort Kochi and Santa Cruz Cathedral, Indo-Portuguese Monstrance belonged from the Church of Our Lady of Hope, Vypeen. The sculptures were contributed by the Calouste Gulbenkian. The sculptures were made of precious metal objects and vestments from the Cathedral of Santa Cruz and some other churches of Kochi episcopate. Along with all these collections, the Indo Portuguese Museum also has an artwork, that was donated by Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation. To experience this beautiful art and heritage must include Indo Portuguese Museum in your Kochi tour package.