Kanakakunnu Palace - Historical Palace in Kerala
Kanakakunnu Palace is an embodiment of excellent craftsmanship and architecture, located close to Napier Museum. This palace is the pride of the state of Kerala. Placed on the top of a small hill, the palace is surrounded by green meadows and offers wonderful views. Sree Moolam Thirunal, a popular Travancore ruler, constructed Kanakakunnu Palace during his reign in Travancore region from 1885 to 1924. It was originally a royal guest house and the venue of royal functions. Another Travancore ruler, Swathi Thirunal, renovated this palace and added a vast tennis court there. This palace was also used as his summer resort.
This structure also finds its name in the list of heritage monuments, compiled by the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage. The red colored faรงade and typical Kerala style structure add an interesting character to it. Some wonderful pieces of antique capture our attention at the entrance of the palace. The brilliant structure of the palace showcases the lavish lifestyle of Thirunal rulers, who were aficionados of art. Once host to many important galas under the reign of the erstwhile rulers of Travancore, it is an integral part of the city's festivities and heritage these days.