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Eventful history of this city began when a major flood in AD 1341 threw open the estuary at Kochi, till then a land locked region, turning it into one of the finest natural harbours in the world.
The Dutch wrested Fort Kochi from the Portuguese in AD 1663 and later in the last phase of the colonial saga, the British took over, the town in 1795.
A few interesting sites included in the tour are the Chinese fishing nets along the Vasco Da Gama Square, Santa Cruz Basilica, St.Francis Church, VOC Gate, Bastion Bungalow etc.
The Santa Cruz Basilica, a church built originally by the Portuguese and elevated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul 1V in 1558, was spared by the Dutch conquerors who destroyed many Catholic buildings.
Jewish Synagogue :This was a Roman Catholic Church during the Portuguese rule from 1503 to 1663, then a Dutch Reformist Church from 1664 to 1804, and Anglican church from 1804 to 1947.
Bolgatty Palace :Fort Kochi is also home to one of India's oldest churches - the St.Francis Church. This was a Roman Catholic Church during the Portuguese rule from 1503 to 1663, then a Dutch Reformist Church from 1664 to 1804, and Anglican church from 1804 to 1947.
Chinese Fishing Nets :The chinese fishing nets found here are the only ones of its kind in India. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here.
Dutch Palace :The Dutch Palace was originally built by the Portugese. Later, in 17th century, the Dutch modified it and presented to the Raja of Kochi.
Pierce Leslie Bungalow :This charming mansion was the office of Pierce Leslie & Co., coffee merchants, founded in 1862.
Santa Cruz Basilica :This historic church was built by the Portguese and eleveated to a Cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. in 1795 it fell into the hands of the British when they took over Kochi, and was demolished.
Hill Palace :Built in the 19th century by Raja of Kochi, the Kochi province was ruled from here. The palace has been converted into a museum displaying a fine collection of articles used by the Rajas of Kochi apart from many archaeological findings.
Jew Town :The area around the Synagogue is a centre of spice trade and curio shops.
Museum of Kerala History :The museum has on display life size statues of many famous personalities and several paintings depicting Kerala History.
Cherai Beach :This lovely beach bordering Vypeen island is ideal for swimming. Dolphins are occasionally seen here.
Pallipuram Fort :It is the oldest European fort built in India.
Parikshit Thampuran Museum :The museum is situated near the famous Siva Temple, Ernakulam. It houses a treasure of archaeological findings and relics including old coins, sculptures, oil paintings and murals.
St Francis Church :It is the oldest church built by European in India.On his 3rd visit to Kerala, Vasco da Gama, the Portugese trader who reached India from Europe by sea, fell ill and died in Kochi.
How to reach there :
Nearest railway station : Ernakulam about 1.5 km from the Main boat jetty.
Nearest airport : Cochin International Airport, about 20 km.
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