Kerala has a rich cultural heritage with rich classical dance forms like Kathakali, Koodiyattom, Mohiniyattom etc, folk dances like Chavittunatakom, Oppana etc. semi classical forms like Thiruvathaira, Ottamthullal etc, compositions of Swathi Thirunal and the Sopanam music. Kerala has a rich tradition in architecture with the Vastuvidya and Thachusastra. Wood was the chief material used by ancient builders of Kerala. The splendour of Padmanabhapuram palace and the Dutch palace at Mattanchery is well known. The traditional painting called murals on the walls of temples and churches are also much acclaimed. The carved figures of Kerala handicrafts are only too well-known. In modern times literature, drama and cinema flourished under western influences.