Mysore Palace

The Mysore Palace, India is a palace that is situated in the city of Mysore, which is in southern India. Actually earlier it was the official residence of the family of Mysore and also housed the Durbar, which means the royal offices. Also the known as the city of palaces the Mysore holds the credit of having the Mysore palace, which nowadays is one of the major tourist attractions.

History

The history of Mysore Palace, India dates back to 1399 when the Wodeyar dynasty ruled the kingdom of Mysore until the independence of India in 1947. This palace was built in the fourteenth century but it was once damaged by a lightning strike. However, it was only partially damaged. But later on also this palace has to face many problems. By the late 18th century due to the negligence its condition got worse. So it was demolished in 1793 and again a new palace was built in its place in 1803. Then again this palace was burnt in fire in 1897 during the wedding of princess Jayalakshmanni. However, it was again reconstructed in 1912 and till date it has suffered no problems. However, a British architect named Henry Irwin built this palace, the last time. As this palace was reconstructed many times so the architectural style o this palace is called as the Indo-Saracenic style. It blends together Hindu, Muslim, Rajput and Gothic styles of architecture.

The Palace

The Mysore Palace, India is a real delight for the eyes of the visitors who visit this palace. It is a three storeyed stone building, which is made up of fine granite with deep pink marble domes. The facade has seven expansive arches and two smaller ones flanking the central arch, which is supported by tall pillars. There is an extraordinary sculpture of Gajalakshmi who is regarded as the goddess of wealth mounted above the central arch. There are several rooms for specific purposes. Such as the Ambavilasa which, was used by the kings for private audience and is also one of the spectacular rooms. Another room is the Gombe Thotti's which is a gallery of traditional dolls from the nineteenth and earlier twentieth century.

Apart from all these there are also some temples, which further add to the beauty of the Mysore Palace, India.