The Hidden Treasures at Jew Town, Cochin

Among the earliest Jewish settlements in India, a colourful riot of products, bustling shops of spices, weathered and hidden antique treasures, an old synagogue and a protected palace. Confused how all this links up? We are referring to some of the most classic elements that stand out at the Jew Town in Cochin, Kerala. The little township is one of the oldest settlements in the country and dates back to the 16th century. Today it is the place to head to for a culturally rich vacation and to discover some of the most unique antiques in the country.As you enter the Jew Town in Cochin, the feeling that you have stepped into a different world envelopes you. The old Jew houses with their rather colourful architecture, aroma of spices wafting in the air and a long line of shops bursting at their seams invite you to explore as much as you can. An entire day can be spent quite gleefully on the streets of Jew Town. Here are some of the things to do in Cochins Jew Town. Jew Town in Cochin is popular for the variety of spices that are on display in various interesting arrangements. You can purchase spices for cooking as well as for home remedies of various ailments. Some of them look so beautiful, you will want to pack some just to enjoy the treat they provide the senses!Photo Courtesy: Dinudey Baidya Among the things to do in Cochins Jew Town is explore the many shops selling a variety of curios and home-decor items. Some new products fashioned the traditional way can be bought at affordable rates. They include some beautifully carved spice boxes, copper and brass ware as well as wooden utensils!Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan The best thing to explore while shopping on Jew Street are the shops selling antiques. Old and weathered treasures in wood, metal and even items such as black and white photographs will enthral all art lovers. There are many products that will tempt you to carry home more than you bargained for, however be careful to check for authenticity while buying expensive antiques!Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan An interesting thing to do in Cochins Jew Town is to take a look at the the worlds largest Uruli, a traditional cooking vessel made in Kerala. Made from bell metal, this stunning piece is 12 ft in diameter and a whooping 3,184 kg in weight! It is only natural for this stunning Uruli to hold the Limca Book of Records as the largest such vessel in the world!Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan Housed in a traditional Kerala building is the Police Museum in Jew Town. Though the items on display are limited, the well-maintained structure is itself worth a visit.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan If all the walking, shopping and bargaining tires you out, head to one of the many art cafes that line the streets. Here, you can not just enjoy a refreshing beverage and some hot snacks but also be mesmerised by the scintillating work of various artists. Paintings range from abstract to classical paintings mimicking the popular Mural style.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan The only functioning Jew temple in the region, the Paradesi Synagogue was built by the first White Jew Settlement. It is located close to the Mattancherry Palace and is open to the public as a historical monument. A small entry fee has to be paid.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan This interesting Palace sporting simple architecture on the outside and exquisite Mural work on the inside has an interesting past. It was first built and gifted by the Portuguese to the then King of Cochin in 1555. Later in the year 1663, the Dutch made improvements to the palace, hence today it is also called the Dutch Palace. The traditional Kerala Murals on the inside are of mythological in nature with representations of Hindu gods and goddesses. The murals are in a state of deterioration and is being protected. Photography is banned inside the premises.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan If all the unique offerings have still not quenched your hunger for something different, try buying one of the traditional Indian games that surprisingly have global connections. Such as the Palangulli or Alluguli Mane. All these aspects collectively make Cochins Jew Town a unique and rewarding experience.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan By Road: Cochin is well-connected by both national and state highways to major regions across the country. Prominent highways are NH-47, NH-66 and NH-85.By Rail: The Ernakulam Railway Junction has trains that connect to various parts of the country.By Air: The Cochin International Aiport is well-coonected to both destinations in India and international cities.Photo Courtesy: Anusha Ramakrishnan