Shakthan Thampuran Palace gets makeover

THRISSUR: The Shakthan Thampuran palace in Thrissur, a historical landmark, which was a monument of neglect, has undergone a 21st-century makeover.

With a fund of Rs 50 lakh sanctioned by the state government, the archaeology department has renovated it replacing damaged roof tiles  and laying aluminium sheets under conical roof to protect the inner wood framework from  rain.

Further, the megalithic age gallery, damaged wooden furniture, including doors and windows, garden and gates, office and guard rooms and compound walls of the palace have also been restored.

The archaeology department officials said, "We have taken up several developmental works to give a major facelift to the palace."

Constructed in 1795 in typical Kerala architectural style,  the place was converted into a museum in 2005.

Presently, the museum features different galleries showcasing the genesis and evolution of ancient writings, sculpture gallery exhibiting granite statues from the 9th century to the 17th century and a megalithic gallery exhibiting the remains of the  stone age etc.

Built in the traditional Naalukettu style, the two-storeyed building has references on the rulers of Mysore, including Tipu Sultan, who are believed to have stayed here at various points in time. The final resting place of Shakthan Thampuran is also located inside the palace.