Sights and Sounds in Kochi

Santa Cruz Basilica
The Portuguese built the church and was later elevated to the status of a cathedral in 1558 by Pope Paul IV. It was demolished in 1795 when it fell into the hands of the British. In 1887, almost 100 years later, it was rebuilt under the guidance of Bishop Dom Gomez Ferreira. The church was proclaimed a Basilica in 1984.

Paradesi Synagogue
The oldest synagogue in the commonwealth, it was constructed in 1568 and is situated in Mattancherry. It was destroyed in a Portuguese raid in 1662 and later rebuilt by the Dutch. Famous for its hand painted, willow patterned floor tiles from script on copper plates, great scrolls of the Old Testament and more.

Jew Town
The area where the synagogue is situated is knows as Jew Town, is where Jewish settlers who came here around 600 years ago. A few of them continue to live here, while most of the Jews have migrated abroad. Most of their homes are now antique shops.

The Dutch Cemetery
Consecrated in 1724, the cemetery is evidence of the hundreds of Europeans who left their countries to make Cochin their home. Today, the Church of South India manages it.

Art Galleries
There are numerous art galleries scattered in various parts of Kochi. With the recent focus on the city as an emerging art depot, art, especially contemporary art, now holds an important position. Western Kochi holds a prominent concentration of art galleries although the older centers like the Kerala Lalitha Kala Akademi Art Gallery continues to house some of the most important art exhibitions.

Cultural Bonanza
Dance and music, too, have been another important aspect of Kerala's rich heritage. Kochi has nutured both over the years. Various traditional dance from and both western and eastern music have been encouraged and taught all over the Kochi. Shows are organized throughout the year; however, the more of a cultural bonanza. Fine Arts Hall in Ernakulam has both dance and music performances throughout the year, while at the smaller centers, like Art Kerala or Cochin Cultural Centre, one can enjoy Kathakali or other traditional art forms. Lokadharmi in Ernakulam is known for theatre.