Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 234

Princess Street The earliest streets constructed in Fort Kochi Princess Street: Princess Street is the one of the earliest streets which was constructed in Fort Kochi. The European style buildings keep its old charm. Parade Ground: The four acre parade ground was where once the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British colonists conducted their military parades and drills. The buildings around ground houses their defence establishments. Pierce Leslie Bungalow: This elegant mansion is the office of PierceLestlie India Limited, a British Trading Company engaged in the trade of various commodities apart from tourism and travel. This Bungalow which is a representative of colonialism reflects Portuguese, Dutch and local influences. Characteristic features are wood panels that form the roof of the ground floor, arched door ways, carved doors and sprawling rooms. Water front sit-outs are an added attraction. Bastion Bungalow: This European style building was built in 1667. With marvelous building structure the Bungalow attracts many visitors. Today it is the official residence of the sub collector. Vasco House: This is one of the oldest Portuguese residences in Fort Kochi, believed to have been the residence of Vasco-Da-Gama. Built in the early 16 th century, vasco house sports the typical European glass paneled windows and balcony cum verandahs characteristics of the times. Vasco-Da-Gama Sqare: The best place to watch the Chinees Fishing nets being lowered into the sea and catch being brought in, is the Vasco-DaGama square a narrow promenade that runs along the beach. The square is the best place for leisure and has stalls serving fresh seafoods. 232 ERNAKULAM|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS