Thangassery: A flashback to Kerala's Portuguese past

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Thangassery red and white stripe Lighthouse on the cliff Quay breakwater surrounded by palm trees and big sea waves on the Kollam beach. Kerala, India

Thangasseri, about five kilometers away from Kollam town is one of those pockets that boasts of colorful past. This seaside village used to be a busy port during the 18th century. The Portuguese set up a fort and a couple of old churches here. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1902. Our photographer Rahul R Pattom takes a stroll through this sleepy village. 



This arch was built by the British at the entry point to Thangasseri in 1939

Thangassery was leased out to the Portuguese and they built a fortified city in the early 1500s. The San Thome fort, as you can see now is in ruins.

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
What remains now of San Thome Fort. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

The Portuguese built a couple of churches. In 1661, the Dutch defeated the Portuguese and took over this town.

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
The interiors of the renovated Infant Jesus church at Thangassery. The church was built way back in the 1614. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

In 1795, the British defeated the Dutch and took control of the town. 

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
The bishop's house at Thangasseri. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

As you stroll through the village, you will see remnants of a 450 year European culture. 

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
The light house. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

Climb to the top of the lighthouse and you see Kollam in all its glory.

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
Thangasseri: A flashback to the past. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

View from the windows as you go up to the top of the lighthouse.

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
View from another window in the lighthouse. Photo: Rahul R Pattom

So if you are around Kollam, take a trip back in time - visit Thangasseri

Thangasseri: A flashback to the past
The walkway. Photo: Rahul R Pattom
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