This morning we are taking a free excursion to Fort Cochin provided by Celebrity as part of the Elite benefits provided on this "Reunion Cruise".
Our first stop was the Church of St. Francis. It is the oldest European constructed church in all of India, built in 1503. It is where Vasco da Gama was buried in 1524, Fourteen years later, his remains were taken back to Portugal, but his tombstone marks the original location of his burial. At the time of our visit, Sunday services were in progress so we could not enter the church.
From the church, we walked down to see the Chinese fishing nets that line the shores of Fort Cochin. They as said to have been introduced by traders from the court of Kublai Khan. They cantilever over the harbour and operate by a system of weights and levers. The nets, on wooden frames, are raised periodically to check the catch.
Our next stop was the Mattancheri Palace (also called the Dutch Palace) orginally built by the Portuguese as a gift for the Raja of Cochin and was later rebuilt by the Dutch. Its wooden interior is decorated with a remarkable series of murals. There is also an interesting collection of Dutch maps of old Kochi, coronation robes belonging to the maharajas, royal palanquins, weapons and furniture. Unfortunately, no photography was allowed.
We also were able to visit the Jewish Synagogue located near the palace in "Jew Town" that was built by Ezekial Rahabi. The synagogue has two pulpits, one that may be used by women. The congregation is very small (7 famalies) as much of the younger generation has migration to Israel. Again, no photography.
We did a little shopping in the area of the synagogue. Only bought some black pepper.
The goats were shopping too......
Our last stop was at Vivanta by Taj Malabar for a private Kathakali performance. Kathakali is one of the oldest theatre forms in the world. It originated in the area of southwestern India now known as the state of Kerala. It is a dance drama where the actors depict characters from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Kathakali dance performance is very dramatic and is enacted with elaborate masks and costumes.
When we returned to the pier, Chris, Tom and I mingled with the locals. It was really neat. They were wonderful people and so happy to meet us.....Also got a ride in a Tut Tut
Chris and Tom and "Flat Stanley"
Well...our cruise is almost over. We have three more sea days and then a stop in Malaysia and then we get off in Singapore.
No comments:
Post a Comment