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History

Kochi, formerly Cochin, is a cosmopolitan city in Kerala (Keralam) with a bustling commercial port.

Overview

Kochi, formerly Cochin, is a cosmopolitan city in Kerala (Keralam) with a bustling commercial port. Kochi is the financial and commercial capital of Kerala and, with a population of more than 2.1 million (2011), the biggest conurbation in the state.

Historical Timeline

1341

Kochi rose to significance as a trading centre after the port Muziris around Kodungallur (Cranganore) was destroyed by the massive flooding of Periyar in 1341.

1440

There are also references to Kochi in accounts written by Italian traveller Niccolò Da Conti, who visited Kochi in 1440.

1498

The Portuguese arrived at Kappad Kozhikode in 1498 during the Age of Discovery, thus opening a direct sea route from Europe to India.

1500

Portuguese navigator, Pedro Álvares Cabral founded the first European settlement in India at Kochi in 1500.

1503

From 1503 to 1663, Fort Kochi (Fort Emmanuel) was ruled by Portugal.

1504

However, the Tanur forces under the king fought for the Zamorin of Calicut in the Battle of Cochin (1504).

Historical Sites

Fort Kochi Beach

Santa Cruz Basilica

St. Francis Church

Mattancherry Palace

Jew Town and Paradesi Synagogue

Notable Figures

Fort Kochi Beach

Santa Cruz Basilica

St. Francis Church

Tour Packages for Kochi

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