Indo-Portuguese Museum

This museum is located on the premises of the Bishop’s House in Fort Kochi. It was with the efforts of late Dr Joseph Kureethra, Bishop of Kochi, the museum came into existence. He took the initiative to preserve the Portuguese’ heritage in Kochi.The museum is divided into five sections – Civil Life, Cathedral, Altar, Treasure and Procession. The museum exhibits Portuguese artworks and antiques. You can find a 17th-century silver-and-wood processional cross from Santa Cruz Basilica, sculptures, metal works, Franciscan Coat of Arms and a piece of the 16th-century, teak wood altar from the Church of Our lady of Hope in Vypeen.

The museum seeks to collect other Indo-Portuguese artifacts from churches and institutions in its diocese. As a means to promote friendly relations between the two countries, and in a bid to preserve Kerala’s little remaining Portuguese culture, the museum conducts musicals and religious programmes often.