Indo-Portuguese Museum
Built on top of the remains of an old Portuguese fort—all that remains are a few stones located in the basement—the Indo-Portuguese museum was established in 1910 by Kochi bishop Dr. Joseph Kureethara in order to preserve the heritage of Portuguese Christian art and its influence in South India. The museum is divided into five main sections---Altar, Treasures, Procession, Civil Life, and Cathedral. There is a 16th-century pulpit made of teakwood that was originally located at St. Francis Church before being moved by the Dutch to Our Lady of Hope Church in Vypeen. Artifacts, which range from pure silver and gold statues and altarpieces to vestments worn by priests, have been collected from 11 churches in the Diocese of Cochin, including the Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica. The museum is located on the lush grounds of the Bishop’s House (which is not open to the public). If possible, ask for a guide to walk you through the museum. No photography is allowed.
