Kerala Tradition & Fascinating Destinations 2014 Kerala Tradition & Destinations 2014 | Page 238

Synagogue: This is the oldest synagogue in the Commonwealth, constructed
in 1568. Partially destroyed in a shelling during the Portuguese raid in
1662 it was rebuilt two years later by the Dutch. Known for mid 18th century
hand painted, willow patterned floor tiles from Canton in China, a clock
tower, Hebrew inscriptions on stone slabs, great scrolls of the old testament,
ancient scripts on copper plates etc.
Fork Immanuel: This bastion of the Portuguese in Kochi was a symbol of
strategic alliance between the Maharaja of Kochi and the Monarck of
Portugal, after whom it was named. Built in 1503 the fort was reinforced in
1538. By 1806 the Dutch and later the British destroyed it. Today the remains of the imposing structure can be seen along the beach.
Kumbalangi Tourist Village: (25 km from Ernakulam) Essentially a fishing
hamlet, this tiny village facing the Kochi backwaters in the western part of
the city is the first ecotourism village in India. Kalagramam, an artist’s
village, displays handicrafts and fishing equipments. Mangroves are
nurtured here as also fish farming. Bait fishing is extremely popular among
tourists here. Many houses in the village are homestays and visitors can
book their stay directly with homestay operators or seek the assistance of
village council.
Ernakulathappan Temple: Situated in the heart of the city, adjoining D.H.
Hall, the benefactor god Shiva, eradicator of all evils is worshipped here.
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ERNAKULAM|TRADITION AND DESTINATIONS