Cochin, Queen of the Arabian Sea
Cochin is the most beautiful City in South India, known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea” because of its natural harbor. Cochin is considered one of the most important port cities in the world and the center of the global spice trade. The city is divided into two parts, Ernakulum on the mainland and Kochi (Cochin), which consists of several islands. Kochi is historically, geographically, and atmospherically the most interesting city on the Malabar Coast. Ernakulam is the largest city in the state of Kerala and a trading Port on the Malabar Coast (the center of the spice trade for over 2000 years). Vasco de Gama becomes the first European to reach India via the Atlantic Ocean when he arrives at Calicut on the Malabar Coast. Kochi is located in southwestern India on the coast of the Arabian Sea in the state of Kerala. The history of Europeans in Kochi begins in the early 16th century with the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch and later the British. They all fought for control of the port and its profitable spice trade. In the 1920s, the British expanded the port to make it navigable for the new ocean liners. Kochi (Cochin) achieved wealth in past centuries by exporting spices to Europe. In 1996 it was given a name in Malayalam and has since been called Kochi. Industries are textiles, shipbuilding, timber, fishing, and coconut processing. Tourism plays an increasingly important role. The export industry is also of great importance.
Must visit Places in Kochi (Cochin), Kerala:
The Chinese fishing nets were introduced by Chinese merchants. The heavy wooden constructions from which nets hang are used mainly during high tide. At least four men are needed to handle them.
Fort Kochi, Dutch palaces, Portuguese architecture, and British influence in harmony with the heritage of Kerala testify that the rulers of Cochin imported not only goods but also culture and knowledge from distant lands.
The Jewish Synagogue, built in 1568, was partially destroyed by the Portuguese in 1662 but rebuilt two years later by the Dutch. In the streets around the synagogue, you will be inundated with jewelry, antiques, perfumes, and spices.
The Franciscan Church (St. Francis Church) is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. Vasco da Gama was buried here in 1524. His tombstone can still be seen today, although his remains were transferred to Lisbon in 1539. The Santa Cruz Basilica was built as a Catholic church in 1902.
Mattancherry Palace was built in 1555 by the Portuguese for the then King of Kochi. In 1663 it was renovated by the Dutch, so it is sometimes called Dutch Palace. A typical Kerala-style mansion with extraordinary wooden ceilings and murals from the Ramayana.
Kathakali Dance Theater in Kochi, Kathakali’s performance is one of the highlights of any South India trip. Kathakali is an art of dance drama in which stories from the Ramayana are portrayed. Elaborate dresses, face masks, drums, and singing accompany the dance performances of the young men, who need 6 years of their training. In many theaters, you also have the opportunity to watch the actor’s make up before the performance begins.