and contemporary art and artists. The traditional Kerala murals
are found in ancient temples, churches and palaces across the
State. These paintings, mostly dating back between the 9th to
12th centuries AD, display a distinct style and a colour code which
is predominantly ochre and green. Like the rest of India, religious
diversity is very prominent in Kerala. The principal religions are
Hinduism, Christianity and Islam. Jainism, Judaism, Sikhism, and
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Buddhism have smaller followings. The state’s historic ties with
the rest of the world have resulted in the state having many
famous temples, churches, and mosques. The Paradesi Synagogue
of the Jews in Kochi is the oldest Jewish place of worship in the
Commonwealth of Nations. Recognising the potential of tourism
in the diversity of religious faiths, related festivals and structures,
the tourism department launched a Pilgrimage tourism project.