Temples, Churches, Mosques and Synagogues

An eclectic blend of religions and cultures has resulted in a singular ethos that has churches, mosques, synagogues and temples entwined in a unique harmonious weave. You can see a living example of religious rapport. For those interested in rituals a visit to these places of worship will be an eye opener. For your surprise you will find a temple of snakes in Mannarasala, a Jain temple at Mattancherry and yet another temple Ochira, which has no idol at all. Kerala’s rich heritage lies in its various temples, churches and mosques.

a. Temples

The temples of Kerala reflect the architectural beauty typical to this state. These ancient temples occupy a large area of space. One needs to move through courtyards-within-courtyards before reaching the sanctum sanctorum. The walls of the temples are covered with carvings and motifs. Some of the mural paintings are preserved. These carvings and paintings depict episodes from the Indian epics and folklore. Larger temples have adjacent mini halls (mandapams) called the ‘Koothamabalams’ where Kathakali and Koodiyattom are performed as offerings to the deity. The temples influence the life of Hindus in Kerala.

b. Churches

Christianity was in Kerala as early as Christianity in Europe. The Portuguese were more than surprised to find Christianity already in the Malabar Coast when they arrived here centuries ago. The Christian community played a vital role in the trade and commerce of the state. The early churches had an architectural with the temples. Various elements such as the impressive gateways or an open-air cross in front of the building are borrowings from the temple-tradition. This form of architecture underwent a change when the Portuguese introduced the Roman form of architecture. Later renovations brought in further changes and many new churches are now built in contemporary style.

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c. Mosques

Malik-Ibn-Dinar landed at Crangannore (Kodungallore) in the 8th century and his faith Islam found its way to Kerala. Later many Arab traders traveled to Malabar and quite a few had settled there. The mosques are usually in the form of a covered structure with a large prayer hall in the center. They also employ arches associated with the Islamic tradition. Superbly carved wooden pulpits are real pieces of art.

d. Synagogue

Since times back Kerala had a community of Jews who were granted many privileges by the then king Bhaskara Ravi Varman. All these were preserved in the Jewish synagogue at Mattancherry, Cochin. The synagogue built in AD 1567 is the most important Jewish monument. It is one of the landmarks of Cochin even today.