Cochin

Also known as Mattancherry Palace, the Dutch Palace is large two storeyed structure of 16th century building and was originally built by the Portuguese. It was given to the ruler of Cochin as a token of goodwill in exchange for trading rights. Later, in 17th century, it was renovated by the Dutch and so gained to be known as Dutch Palace. The palace is tiday a museum with fine collection of mural paintings depicting scenes from the Hindu epics Mahabharatha and Ramayana. In the central Durbar Hall, where coronation ceremonies were once held, is the portrait gallery of the Cochin rulers. 

The synagogue was built in 1568 and is set in a corner of Jew Town and rather hemmed in by the other buildings, with only the 18th century clock tower visible from outside. The first Jewish settlers are said to have reached Kodungallur in the 1st century AD. The present synagogue with its tiled roof and clock tower was rebuilt in 1664 with Dutch help, after Protuguese destroyed it in 1662. It is magnificently decorated by Chinese tiles and Belgian chandeliers. The narrow lanes around the synagogue are crammed with Dutch-style residences and most of these house antique shops.

It is the oldest church built by Europeans in India. It was established in the early 1500s by the Portuguese. The church was originally constructed in wood, but was replaced by a stone-structure in 1546. The church was taken over by Dutch and then by the British. Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader burial spot is inside the church and has been clearly marked out. 

The Chinese Fishing Nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin and said to have been introduced by traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan. These are set up on teak and bamboo poles and are physical remnants of Fort Cochin’s ancient trade with the Far East. Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets.