Indo-Portuguese Museum

The Indo-Portuguese Museum, nestled in the heart of Fort Kochi in Kerala’s Ernakulam district, offers a deep dive into the region’s colonial past and the enduring legacy of Portuguese influence. Spearheaded by the late Dr. Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi, the museum was established to preserve and celebrate the cultural exchange between India and Portugal, particularly as seen in the architecture, art, and religious life of the region.

Discover the Legacy of Indo-Portuguese Heritage

Housed within the serene Bishop’s House compound, the Indo-Portuguese Museum is divided into five themed sections: Altar, Treasure, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral. Each segment offers a window into a specific aspect of life during the Portuguese era in Kochi, blending European and Indian traditions.

The Altar section displays beautifully carved religious artifacts, including a 16th-century teak wood altar and other ecclesiastical items. In the Treasure section, visitors can marvel at a stunning collection of gold and silverware, coins, and liturgical objects. The Procession section recreates the grandeur of religious festivals with items like a 17th-century processional cross crafted in silver and wood. The Civil Life section provides glimpses of domestic life, showcasing period furniture, household tools, and everyday objects. Lastly, the Cathedral section highlights Indo-Portuguese architectural features with models, paintings, and fragments from old churches, including relics from Fort Immanuel.

Many of the items on display were generously donated by the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation and are carefully preserved with informative labels that enhance the visitor experience. The museum not only preserves art and religious symbols but also stands as a testimony to the shared heritage that shaped Fort Kochi’s unique character.

Visitor Information

The Indo-Portuguese Museum is open from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, offering flexible visiting hours for travelers. It is located within the Bishop’s House compound in Fort Kochi, making it easily accessible on foot or by local transport from nearby attractions. Entry is available only through offline bookings, so visitors are encouraged to plan. As a cultural destination, it’s particularly recommended for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in Kerala’s colonial past.