India was flanked by European powers in the fifteenth century. These powers made sure to leave their mark on the political and cultural landscape of the country. But first, to gain control over the country, they had to ensure they had some measures in place. One of these measures was a ‘fort.’
In India, forts are everywhere, standing witness to a bygone era. The Portuguese, just like the British, built many forts in the country, the first of which was Fort Emmanuel in Kochi. Now, there are only a few remnants of the fort.
When the Portuguese first arrived in Kochi, they were welcomed by the king. The Portuguese and the King of Kochi signed a treaty that led to a Portuguese city named Santa Cruz in the region. Fort Emmanuel was part of this city. So was the St. Francis church.
Fort Emmanuel was a victim of multiple wars, but two significant ones ruined the Fort. First: when the Dutch overthrew the Portuguese in Kochi, they destroyed the Fort. Second: the British occupation of Kochi. The British destroyed everything reminiscent of the Portuguese in their territories. As a result, Fort Emmanuel faced the brunt of the British.
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