Sat Jun 14 18:52:21 UTC 2025: ## Summary:

A heritage walk through Portuguese Kochi, India, took place on June 15, 2025, organized by several heritage and tourism organizations. 22 enthusiasts participated in the five-hour walk, which covered a vast array of historical sites and buildings throughout West Kochi, including notable landmarks like the Chinese fishing nets, St. Francis Church, and various colonial-era houses and structures. The walk aimed to showcase the rich Portuguese history and cultural heritage of the area.

## News Article:

**Kochi Embraces History: Heritage Walk Unveils Portuguese Legacy**

**KOCHI, INDIA – June 15, 2025** – Twenty-two heritage enthusiasts embarked on a comprehensive tour of Kochi’s Portuguese past today, participating in a meticulously planned heritage walk through the city’s historic heart. The five-hour “Portuguese Kochi Heritage Walk with Bony Thomas” was a collaborative effort by the Cochin Heritage Zone Conservation Society, the Ernakulam District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC), and the Centre for Heritage, Environment and Development (C-HED).

The walk, commencing at 8:30 AM, provided a rich tapestry of Kochi’s historical landscape, encompassing a diverse range of sites and structures. Participants explored iconic landmarks such as the Chinese fishing nets, the Ro-Ro jetty, and the historic St. Francis Church. The tour also highlighted a multitude of colonial-era buildings, including Koder House, Old Harbour Hotel, and Bastion Bungalow, offering glimpses into the lives and legacies of those who shaped the city’s past.

From the Vasco da Gama Square to the Anti-War Installation and the Santa Cruz Basilica, the heritage walk served as a captivating journey through time, emphasizing the enduring impact of Portuguese influence on Kochi’s cultural and architectural identity. Organizers hope the event will raise awareness and further promote the preservation of Kochi’s invaluable heritage for future generations.

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