Kuthiramalika Palacewas built by sculptors from Thanchavore. The pillars of this palace carved on single stone and an exquisitely designed roof enhances the beauty of the palace. A striking monument of 122 horses is attached to the palace- hence the name Kuthiramalika (kuthira means horse and malika is mansion in Malayalam).

Kuthiramalika Palace built by
Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma
Kuthiramalika takes its name from the roof beams which are carved to resemble the faces of horses. It has on display ornaments, personal effects and weapons of the former Kings of the erstwhile princely State of Travancore. It is a true specimen of Kerala's classical architecture. 'Dantasimhasana' is the most prominent sight in this palace.

The first room of the palace houses 14 life-size figures depicting various scenes from the Kerala legends and Kathakali. Magnificent ivory cots, thrones of kings, a musical tree that produces the eight 'swaras' when tapped, etc are a few of the attractions of the museum.
Kuthiramalika Palace built by
Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma
The ceiling of the verandah is dotted with floral motifs. Huge Belgium mirrors add to the beauty of the Kuthira Malika. The 16 rooms in the palace have 16 different patterns.
This architectural delight was built during the reign of Maharaja Swathi Thirunal Balarama Varma (1813-1834 AD)- the King of Travancore. Swathi Thirunal was musician and composer of eminence and a great contributor to Carnatic and Hindustani classical music. He spent much of his time in this palace composing many of his musical pieces. He spent his last days in this rambling bungalow. This enchanting, rambling old mansion is adjacent to Sri Padmanabha Swami Temple in East Fort.

Every year the Swathi Music Festival is conducted here in the front courtyard. The five day festival in January-February features leading Carnatic and Hindustani musicians. Stalwarts like Ustad Bismilla Khan, Gangu Bai Hangal, Kishori Amonkar, Dr.M.Balamurali Krishna ,D.K.Pattammal etc have performed in the festival.






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