:: Monuments, Monuments of India, Monuments of Cochin, Jewish Synagogue, Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace, Chinese Fishing Nets, Synagogue Jewish Monument, , Indian Heritage Monuments, Indian National Monuments ::

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Jewish synagogue

The Jewish Synagogue in Kochi was built in 1568 AD. In Cochin, Synagogue Jewish Monument is the oldest existing synagogue among the common wealth countries of the world. The Synagogue Jewish Monument stands out as an evidence of mutual harmony in the state for centuries. The synagogue (Jewish place of worship) still has rolls of Old Testament and also the old copper plates that have records of the grants and privileges bestowed upon the rulers of Kochi.The synagogue is covered with beautifully painted Chinese tiles. The amazing fact is that no two tiles resemble each other. The interiors

are beautifully decorated with Belgian chandeliers and grand lighting. The synagogue has a collection of the souvenirs that were presented to the kings of Kochi as a token of love and affection. These souvenirs include the beautifully carved crowns in wrought gold and silver that were gifted by various patrons who visited the place. The synagogue is an important symbol of the religious and cultural heritage of the Jews. One can visit the monument on all days except Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

Dutch Palace

Also known as Dutch Palace, the Mattancherry palace with its medieval charm is situated at Palace Road, Mattancherry,10km from Ernakulam city, Kochi, Kerala. Built by the Portuguese and presented to the Raja of Kochi Veera Kerala Varma (1537-65) in 1555 AD, it took on its present popular name 'Dutch Palace' after 1663, when the Dutch carried out some extensions and renovations in the palace. The rajas also made more improvements to it. Today, it is a portrait gallery of the Cochin Rajas and notable for some of the best mythological murals in India, which are in the best traditions of Hindu Temple Art.

Chinese fishing nets

The chinese fishing nets (Cheenavala) are distinctly unique to Cochin. It is believed that traders from the court of the Chinese ruler Kublai Khan introduced these nets here. Oddly, these nets are found only in Kochi, outside China! Many fishermen earn their livelihood by fishing using these massive nets. A whole stretch of the coast along Fort Kochi and Vypeen are dotted with these nets.