Directorate of Archaeology

The overall progress of society depends largely on how it preserves and interprets its history. Cultural heritage plays a significant role in how the stories of the past are remembered. The Department of Archaeology has been working hard to preserve and protect our diverse and rich cultural wealth. The way the Department has overcome the challenges posed by the vestiges of time is truly commendable.

A melting pot of a plethora of lifestyles, Kerala has been successful in showcasing a huge array of historical sites before a global audience. The Department of Archaeology has been actively engaged in scientifically preserving and protecting these cultural centres.

It is a fact that climate change and the complexities of building materials have complicated the preservation of these massive structures. However, the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act passed in 1968 and the regulations formed in 1972 have been helpful in stifling any damage done to them.

The historical inferences and discoveries from these ancient monuments and archaeological remains are the results of the deep studies and excavations done by our historians and researchers. These include stone inscriptions, caves, cave-temples, palaces, forts, temples, churches, mosques, ancient coins, artefacts and monuments. Each one of them is a significant reminder of our cultural lineage.