Napier Museum

Designed by Robert Chisholm (the consulting architect of the Madras Government), the Napier Museum is a landmark in the city of Trivandrum. Named in honour of the former governor of Madras, Lord Napier, the building was commissioned by the Maharaja of Travancore Uthram Tirunal and later rebuilt by Maharaja Ayilyam Tirunal. It is located within the zoological garden complex, which is spread over 55 acres. The Napier Museum displays around 550 objects, which include a rare collection of archaeological and historical artefacts like ancient ornaments, a temple chariot, wood works, a coin collection, bronze idols, ivory carvings (the royal family donated some of them) and relics of Kerala history (including Velu Thampi Dalawa's sword from the war against the British). The displays highlight the artistic and sculptural history of Kerala. The building itself  contains some interesting architectural elements--for instance, the carved ceiling and the stained glass windows show the style of construction used in Kerala--and has been incorporated into the museum's displays

The museum contains artefacts that allow one to understand the cultural history of India as well as the state of Travancore. Some of them are also objects commissioned by the rulers, or gifts received by them, affording a glimpse into their lives.