The historic city of Kolhapur is home to Shri Ambabai (Goddess Mahalaxmi). There are many gems hidden in and around the city, one of them being the Town Hall Museum. The Town Hall building is situated in the heart of the city with lush green gardens and a botanical park covering almost 8 acres of area. An administrative building during British era, the museum was designed by British architect Charles Mant, who also designed the Laxmi Vilas Palace of the Gayakwad Sarkar in Baroda. The construction represents the neo-gothic architecture which was in vogue during the nineteenth century in India.
The building was converted into a museum a few decades ago. It was recently renovated as well .
There are seven corridors or galleries, each dedicated to archaeological relics such as metallic artefacts, sculptures, ivory filigree, sandalwood work, weapons, paintings, old coins and photos. Information and photos of historic monuments, places, customs and traditions of Kolhapur city are also on display in this museum. The area around the museum holds some rare species of flora that adds to the beauty of the site.
