Kochi, the territory that would later be known as Fort Kochi, was granted to the Portuguese in 1503 by the Raja of Kochi as a fishing village in the Kingdom of Kochi in pre-colonial Kerala. The Portuguese held it for 160 years until the Dutch came and took possession of it for the next ten decades, followed by the British. Fort Kochi stands today as an amalgamation of histories from centuries ago. This walk will take participants through a number of historical remains that define Fort Kochi as it is today. In this walk, we will explore the narrow streets of the old city, with remnants of a complex past. From the beach through the old buildings on both sides, we will visit the Dutch Cemetery, St. Francis Church, Santa Cruz Basilica, Parade Ground, Dutch East India Company Warehouse, etc.
This guided tour is free.