Dutch Palace/Mattancherry Palace
We started in Mattancherry. The area is a mix of old buildings, shops, and narrow streets. It’s a place for browsing - clothes, souvenirs, local snacks, and spices are available in small stores. One main attraction here is the Dutch Palace, also called Mattancherry Palace. It was built by the Portuguese and later renovated by the Dutch before being handed over to the local ruler.
The palace has a central courtyard and wooden ceilings. Inside, there are murals from Hindu epics, portraits of Cochin rulers, royal furniture, and a few weapons. It’s not a large place, but it gives a basic idea of how the royal family lived and what influenced the design during the colonial period (COLOMBO SRI LANKA SIGHTSEEING).
Jewish Synagogue
Not far from the palace is the Paradesi Synagogue. Built in 1568, it is located in what is known as Jew Town. This synagogue is more than 400 years old. Inside, there are hand-painted tiles from China, a chandelier from Belgium, and gold crowns given by patrons. It also houses Torah scrolls and a few other historical items. The visit doesn’t take long, but it adds another layer to Kochi’s background.
St. Francis Church
We continued to St. Francis Church. This is the oldest European church in India, originally built by the Portuguese in 1503. It is also known for being the original burial site of Vasco da Gama, whose remains were later taken to Lisbon. The church building has seen changes under Dutch and British rule, and the structure reflects that mix. It’s a quiet place with a straightforward layout.
Traffic and Planning
One thing to be aware of is the traffic.
Compared to the quieter areas in Kerala, Kochi can be busy, especially during
peak hours. Delays are common, and it may affect how much you can cover in a
day. Planning your routes and timings helps. On the plus side, the locals -
including our driver and informal guide - were polite and helpful, making the
day more manageable.
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