The old town of F ort Cochin or Fort Kochi is the first European settlement in Asia founded by the Portuguese. Once a famous medieval port city under the Portuguese, it became the apple of the eye for other colonial actors from Europe as the gateway to the fabulous spices market. The Dutch and later the British captured this fort settlement to advance their colonial and commercial enterprise in India and other parts of Asia.
Mattancherry
Mattancherry, one of the western suburbs of the modern city of Cochin, was once a bustling centre of trade, particularly in spices. Frequent invasions from across the sea have left indelible marks on the landscape, culture, art and social history of the place.
Mattancherry welcomed every migrant community that came to her with warmth and provided them with ample opportunities to flourish. Thanks to the benevolence of the erstwhile kings of Cochin, many a community like that of Jews, Konkanis, Gujaratis, Jains and Marathis made the place their home.
HML’s Bungalow – II
Facilities:
• Three Bed Rooms
• Attached Bathrooms
• 24 Hours Hot Water
• Television
• WiFi
• Traditional Kerala and Continental foods
HML’s Bungalow – III
Facilities:
• Three Bed Rooms
• Attached Bathrooms
• 24 Hours Hot Water
• Television
• WiFi
• Traditional Kerala and Continental foods
Nearby Attractions
Activities
Muziris Biennale
The Kochi-Muziris Biennale plays a major role in promoting art & culture and educational activities in India. The first of its kind, modern international ar t visits Kochi in all its glory every two years. The even showcases contemporary artists from all over the world and was flagged off in 2012. I t usually runs from December to February.
Kathakali Centre
After a well- spent day walking around Fort Kochi exploring its heritage, the best way to unwind is by attending a local Kathakali performance at the end of the day. Head for the K erala Kathakali Centre.
Fort Kochi Beach
A very beautiful beach once lined this island, once famous as the ‘Queen of the Arabian Sea’. The serene beach was affected by the tsunami and now an attractive promenade was built to offer the scenic view and natural beauty to its visitors.
Indo-Portuguese Museum
The Indo-Portuguese Museum, located within the premises of the Bishop’s House, displays various artefacts collected from different churches. The museum preserves the rich heritage of Indo-Portuguese culture, art and architecture in Kerala.
Santa Cruz Basilica
Though Fort Kochi is full of monuments that throb with history and have an unmistakable old-world charm, the S anta Cruz Basilica, one of the eight basilicas in India, makes an indelible impression on visitors
The Dutch Cemetery
The Dutch connection of Fort Kochi does not end with the above mentioned two churches. Down the road from St Francis Church, that runs parallel to the beach, stands the Dutch Cemetery. The cemetery, which was consecrated in 1724, is believed to be the oldest European cemetery in the country.
Fort Immanuel
Fort Immanuel, in Fort Kochi, was built by the Portuguese in the 1500s. Soon after their arrival to Kochi, the Portuguese made a strategic alliance with the king. Fort Immanuel, named after the then Portuguese monarch, King Immanuel, represents one of their major efforts in this regard.
