Cochin, also known as Kochi, is an emblematic port city of Kerala, located on the south-west coast of India. This cosmopolitan city, steeped in history, harmoniously blends colonial influences and Kerala traditions. Neighbourhoods such as Fort Kochi, with its colonial houses, picturesque alleyways and famous Chinese fishing nets, are a reminder of its past as a trading post attracting Portuguese, Dutch and British traders. The Santa Cruz basilica and the Paradesi synagogue, one of the oldest in the Jewish diaspora, bear witness to this rich multicultural heritage.
A veritable jewel of the backwaters, Cochin is surrounded by a network of lagoons and canals, offering serene landscapes where life flows to the rhythm of traditional wooden boats. The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with institutions such as the Kerala Kathakali Centre, dedicated to the classical arts. Its colourful and fragrant spice market is a reminder of its historic role in the trade of cinnamon, pepper and cardamom. Between modernity and tradition, Cochin captivates with its unique atmosphere of sea, history and culture.
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