The cultural heritage of Kerala architecture is multifaceted and pervasive. The state of Kerala, India is known for its art, religious and architectural heritage. The architectural style of the land reflects the harmonious blending and fusion of various regions and cultures, with each place influenced by diverse ethnic groups in unique ways while continuing to keep an unmistakable aesthetic continuity.
Significance of Cultural Heritage in Kerala:
The cultural heritage of Kerala architecture is a major tourist attraction. The magnificent monuments and buildings of the cultural heritage in Kerala attract a large number of visitors, who wish to know more about them. Many people flock to many heritage sites every year to take a glimpse of the glorious past that Kerala had experienced. The cultural heritage in Kerala is not just limited to the ancient buildings and monuments; it comprises folk dances, art forms and classical music too.
What makes Cultural Heritage of Kerala Different :
1) The architectural style of Kerala art and architecture is a mix of Indian and European, with the former showing as dominant in the state.
2)The architectural style that evolved in Kerala was primarily an adaptation of Indian art and architecture to local climatic conditions, which were mostly tropical.
3)The charm of the temples across India is due to their unique architectural features. The Kerala temples are considered to be one of the best temple complexes in India with a range among them.
4)Being one among the oldest civilisation in Asia, almost all countries in Asia have got some contribution from it.
5) Vernacular architecture of Kerala is an inserted concept and can be said to be the melding of eastern and western styles.
6)The cultural heritage of Kerala architecture is a fusion of several eastern and western architectural traditions.
7) Keralas’ culture is diverse and rich, from its history with ancient states like Chera Dynasty, Chola dynasty etc.
8) Famous Architects in Kerala believe in the harmony of the two different styles which is the main reason behind their exquisite works.
Some Famous Architecture in Kerala:
1) Architecture and cultural Heritage of Kerala temples is known for its unique features.
2) The Kovalam temple is one of the most famous temples in Kerala. It was built by the king Marthanda Varma in 1750. This temple has a blend of both Indian and western architectural styles.
3) The architecture and cultural Heritage of Kerala churches are well known for their traditional architectural style and ornaments, paintings etc. The famous churches are St George orthodox church, Puthoor Church etc.
4) The architecture and cultural heritage of palaces in kerala are considered to be one among the best ones in India, built by the kings and nobles here.
5) The famous architecture of Kerala mosques can be seen in many other parts of India such as the Jama Masjid, Kochi,.
6) The famous architecture of Kerala forts have been built by native rulers and do have a blend of both European and Indian architectural styles with beautiful interiors and paintings.
7)The Cochin House boat is an attraction for visitors to Kerala and has a blend of both Indian, Chinese, European and Arabian style architecture.
8)The Allapuzha beach house is an example of exotic style architecture with its creative interior decorations. Its ceiling is adorned with beautiful carvings that looks stunning at night also when they are lighted up.
Conclusion:
Kerala’s cultural heritage has a blend of Indian, Arabian and European architecture. It is an architectural delight to visit the state of Kerala to experience it yourself. The famous architectural styles like Kerala style, South Indian style and Nagpoor style can be observed in almost all historical mosques, mosques and churches built by Muslim rulers in India.