Located within the historic Valiya Kottaram complex near the southern gateway of the iconic Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple in Thiruvananthapuram, Anantha Vilasam Palace is a prime example of Indo-European architecture with subtle indigenous influences.
Above image: There are many palaces of beauty and simplicity in the capital city of Thiruvananthapuram particularly in the Valiya Kottaram complex of fort area, each vying with the other in their architectural design and splendor. Unlike many palaces in the north, they are not richly embellished.Nor are they palantial..................
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| Location map. Thiruvanandapuram city .mapsofindia.com |
Built in 1882 during the short but culturally vibrant reign of Maharajah Vishakam Thirunal Rama Varma (1880–1885), the palace reflects the ruler’s refined aesthetic sensibilities and scholarly inclinations, particularly his passion for botany and nature.
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| Maharajah Vishakam Thirunal Rama Varma rct.uk |
Constructed under the guidance of his aunt, the erudite regent Gowri Lakshmi Bayi, the palace drew inspiration from the nearby Sreepadam Malika, completed in 1818. Its façade features loft Corinthian columns with fluted shafts and elaborately carved floral capitals—motifs symbolizing the Maharajah’s botanical interests. The palace’s design prioritizes both elegance and climate-adaptive architecture. High ceilings, large louvered wooden doors and windows, and glass panels ensure optimal cross-ventilation and natural lighting, maintaining a cool interior even in Kerala’s tropical climate.
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| Corinthian Column in.pinterest.com |
Striking architectural elements include impressive staircases with ornamental metal grill railings, a gently oval-shaped balcony, and spacious halls flanking the entrance lobby on the first floor. The wide cornices, adorned with intricate floral ornamentation, and the parapeted outer veranda supported by finely turned stone balusters, reflect a balance between European neoclassical form and Travancore craftsmanship. The gabled roof, built using native methods, integrates seamlessly into the regional architectural vocabulary.
Though formally occupied in 1882, the palace was left unused after the untimely death of Vishakam Thirunal in 1885. In subsequent years, it served as a guest house for dignitaries. Presently under the Sree Padmanabha Swamy Temple Trust, the palace is occupied by the State Bank of Travancore. As of recent updates, the Kerala Tourism Department is actively considering its restoration along with other heritage palaces in the vicinity, aiming to revive the royal charm of Travancore’s architectural legacy and open these cultural treasures to the public once again.
https://yappe.in/kerala/thiruvananthapuram/ananthavilasam-palace/145109
https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/Harmonious-blend-of-styles/article16931362.ece
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2021/jan/13/royal-charm-of-travancorekingdom-to-be-revived-2249327.html
https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/thiruvananthapuram/2021/jan/13/royal-charm-of-travancorekingdom-to-be-revived-2249327.html
https://www.navrangindia.in/2023/05/anantha-vilasam-palace.html
