About Kerala

KOCHI

Description
Accomodations
Packages
Images

Cochin means river connecting the backwaters to the sea. Kochi was the centre of Indian spice trade for many centuries, and was known to the Yavanas (Greeks) as well as Romans, Jews, Arabs, and Chinese since ancient times. From 1503 to 1663, Fort Kochi was ruled by Portugal.

This Portuguese period was difficult for the Jews installed in the region, since the Inquisition was active in Portuguese India.

Kochi hosted the grave of Vasco da Gama, the first European explorer to set sail for India, who was buried at St. Francis Church until his remains were returned to Portugal in 1539. The fishing net, Fort Cochin, St. Francis Church and Jewish synagogue are the main attractions of Cochin.

Kochi is the only place outside of China where these fishing structures are used. The Mattancherry Palace, built by the Portuguese is another attractions of Cochin.