Jews Street in Fort Cochin

Thattekad Bird Sanctuary | Jewish Quarter in Fort Cochin

Once a Jews enclave, the Jews Street is now bereft of that community which left to Israel except one or two families. The Star of David inscribed variegated arches wear a wornout look. The marvellous blue and green facades stand faded. The spice shops and curio souks – so interestingly developed by Jews are still thriving in Market Road.

In one end is a Synagogue with Malayalam (Kerala’s language) and Hebrew tomb-stones. There were 7 Synagogues, but now only this 400 years old Pardesi Synagogue. Interior with curved brass columns, intricately carved teak chest, Belgian crystal chandeliers and Torah crowns with gems set in gold look marvellous. Hand-painted porcelain tiles from Canton, each tile in different pattern, reinforced the flooring. Two copper plates with details of privileges bestowed on the Jews during the regime of Bhaskara Ravi Varman are preserved as invaluable. The 45-ft clock-tower warrants special attention as its 4 dials bear four different numerals in Arabic, Hebrew, Latin and Malayalam.