Thrissur (the name derived from 'Tiru-Shiva-Perur‘), the cultural capital of Kerala has is in the central region of Kerala with rich history, culture and archeological wealth. The entire credit for the rise of the modern city of Thrissur goes to Raja Rama Varma, who ascended the throne of the state of Cochin in 1790. The city and the area around it have a number of museums, art schools, and institutes, which are dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich cultural traditions of Kerala. The multi-hued past of this city comes alive at the Archaeological Museum and the Art Museum as also the art gallery located within the Town Hall. The Vadakkunathan Temple is the spiritual centre of the city and is famous all over India for its magnificent annual Pooram festival.