Indo-Portuguese Museum

The Indo-Portuguese Museum is a true testimony to this unique bond that Portugal shares with India in general and Kochi in particular

The arrival of the Portuguese in India was a turning point in the country’s history. Beginning as traders and then eventually colonisers, the Portuguese have had a lasting legacy in India’s socio-cultural and political spectrum. They were one of the earliest colonial occupants in Kerala and the impact they have on Kerala’s society is incredible. Fort Kochi in Ernakulam was one of their hubs in Kerala and no wonder those relics still remain. The Indo-Portuguese Museum is a true testimony to this unique bond that Portugal shares with India in general and Kochi in particular.

The Indo-Portuguese Museum was established with an intent to protect the cultural heritage and Portuguese influence of Fort Kochi. One of the favourite spots for history enthusiasts and travellers alike in the region, the Indo-Portuguese Museum is located inside the Bishop’s House compound in Fort Kochi. The museum showcases the powerful influence that the Portuguese had on Kochi’s art and architecture.

The museum comprises of 5 main sections – Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life and Cathedral. There is wide range of exhibits inside the museum that include a piece of the Altar made in teak, a chasuble and a processional cross made using wood and silver. Many churches have made contributions to the museum by adding sculptures, precious metals, vestments etc to the collection.