Kochi, March 2 (IANS): The Kerala government Sunday opened four museums under the Muziris Heritage project, located in north Paravur near here.

People of Kerala will now get a chance to learn about the rich bygone era of a "lost city" which played a crucial role in moulding the socio-politico culture of the state.

The state government's decision to revive the Muziris Heritage project has been widely praised by many countries, including China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Russia and Bangladesh.

The Unesco and the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) have also backed the state government's conservation efforts.

The museums open Sunday include the Kerala History Museum, housed in the Paliam Kovilakam; Kerala Lifestyle Museum in Paliam Nalukettu; Kerala Jews Historical Museum housed in Paravur Synagogue; and Kerala Jews Lifestyle Museum in Chendamangalam Synagogue.

The 18th century Paliam Kovilakam was the residence of Paliath Achans, who were prime ministers to the erstwhile kings of Kochi in the 16th century.

The heritage building is an architectural wonder, with its carved stairways and balustrades.

All museums are equipped with video screens, touch screens and information panels to help the visitors understand the rich history of the region.

"The Muziris Heritage project is one of the biggest conservation projects in the modern history of India. It is because of this magnitude that both the central and state governments have come together to conserve and showcase a culture of more than three millennia," said state Tourism Minister A.P. Anil Kumar.

Kerala Tourism director S. Harikishore said the project gives people an opportunity to walk the same road once travelled by explorers and traders in ancient Muziris.

"The Muziris Heritage project focuses on sustainability and involvement of local communities. It follows international guidelines such as the UNESCO Charters on heritage conservation," said Kerala Tourism secretary Suman Billa.