In the heart of Thiruvananthapuram city lies the Great Napier Museum showing Kerala’s rich cultural heritage. It is one of the oldest museums in India and is named after Lord Napier, the former Governor of Madras Presidency, who inaugurated the museum in 1880.
The very idea of a Museum in Travancore was the brain child of the erstwhile King, Uthram Thirunal. The Museum in its current form was started in the year 1855 by him. This old museum established by Sri Utharam Thirunal, was demolished during the reign of Ayilyam Thirunal as it was not large enough to display the immense collection of artifacts and therefore the present Napier Museum was built. The main motto behind the formation was to provide instruction and encouragement in arts and crafts exhibiting specimens of interest in natural history and products of art and industry, both native and foreign.
The museum’s building is an architectural marvel and is a blend of Indian and Gothic styles. It was designed by Robert Chisholm, a British architect, and features a distinctive red and white color scheme with ornate carvings and a prominent central dome. This architectural masterpiece is renowned for its Indo-Saracenic structure, Gothic roofs and minarets.
Every nook and corner of the building reflects Kerala’s rich architectural legacy. This magnificent structure in shades of red is ornamented with stained glass windows and four huge watch towers that follow a specific color pattern. The lush landscape that surrounds the museum offers one with a pleasant ambience for an evening walk or a day out with friends and family. Inside the museum there are three big halls connected by long corridors with walls creatively painted in light blue, yellow and red. The museum has four towers which once gave the visitors a beautiful glimpse of the Thiruvananthapuram city.
The Napier Museum has an abundant collection of more than 550 exhibits of historical and archaeological value. Apart from this, it is rich with its ancient coin collection which counts to more than 5000 in number. The Museum is splendid with an array of imposing antique bronze images, exquisite wooden sculptures and carvings, stunning stone sculptures, magnificent ivory carvings, ancient coins, royal collectables, and other historic items. It also houses Japanese shadow play leather, burial urns, Kathakali models etc. It is the Sword of Velu Thampi Dhalawa, one of the first martyrs of Indian Freedom struggle that welcomes us when we step into this historic marvel.
In addition to its art and historical collections, the museum has a Natural History Section that showcases a variety of specimens related to the natural world, including taxidermy displays of animals and birds, fossils, and botanical exhibits.
The museum complex also includes the Sree Chitra Art Gallery, which features a remarkable collection of paintings by renowned Indian artists, including Raja Ravi Varma and Nicholas Roerich. The gallery is a significant attraction for art enthusiasts.
The museum not only serves as a repository of historical and cultural artifacts but also plays a vital role in promoting art and culture in Kerala. It frequently hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events.
The Napier Museum is open to the public, and visitors can explore its collections during regular museum hours. It’s an excellent place to learn about Kerala’s rich cultural heritage and history.
The Napier Museum is a must-visit destination for history buffs, art enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring the cultural heritage of Kerala. It offers a glimpse into the region’s past and its artistic traditions.
