Muziris heritage project is one of the most revolutionary projects, started by Kerala government to promote the state tourism and unify the heritage sites of the place. Located just 27 km from Kochi (Kerala), Muziris is also known as Vanchi in local language. It remained a major port for trade and commerce for more than 2500 years and caught attention of classical authors due to Romans interest in trading and their desire to have contact with regions beyond the reach of easy conquest and finally, they made this place as their trade routes. Merchants from across the world have used the port for trading and left many heritage sights for us for exploration.
According to tourism department, the Keralian government has planned Rs.17-crore budget for road and canal project. Artifacts, paintings, and documents have been collected to be displayed at the museum. The Muziris heritage circuit would highlight the life and times of the ancient port town and would be an educational experience. Kodugallur, the land that once operated to have trade contacts
With Rome, Greece, China, and Persia, was named as Muziris in its hey day. Recently, the Archeological survey of India has chosen a place Pattanam for surveying ruins and artifacts. Muziris, till first century AD, was known as the shelter of many religions such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. St Thomas, the apostle of Jesus Christ is said to be started his missionaries from this port and so did the Islamic missionaries. It is a home to Indias first church Mar Thoma Church and first mosque Cheraman, Juma Masjid.
Commonly known as Jerusalem of East, Muziris is hub of tourist attractions, some of them are described below.
Guruvayoor Temple- it is one of the most notable temples of south India, hosts Hindu marriages in traditional rituals.
Elephant Sanctuary- located in Punnathur Kotta, it is considered as the largest shelter to elephants. Here you can find more than 68 wild Elephants in their natural habitat.
Our Lady of Snow church- It is regarded as one of the oldest church of India, built by Portuguese 500 years ago.
Paliport fort- it is also known as Benjamin fort, entitled as first European fort in India.
Mahadeva temple-it is regarded as one of the oldest Shiva temple in India.
Further the excavation site shows that Muziris is one of the most ancient harbors in India, nearly 3000 year old. |
