Chennamangalam Monuments and Crafts

Chendamangalam, under the Paliath Achans, was a model of religious tolerance. It is one of the unique places in India where places of worship from the four major religions, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism and Judaism exist within a short distance of each other. This circuit includes monuments such as the Vypeekotta Seminary, Holy Cross Church, Krishna Temple, the Synagogue and Jewish houses Popular and slowly disappearing crafts like Pappad making, Pottery, and Bell Metal Industry are also included in this tour.

Krishna Temple, Kottayil Kovilakom: Kottayil Kovilakom, the site of the royal palace of the Villar Vattathu Raja of Villar Vattathu Swarupam is an important historical site. A Vishnu temple is located on top of the hill, in the same compound. The Jewish cemetery of the Chendamangalam Jews is preserved in the valley of this hill.

Synagogue, Kottayil Kovilakom: The Jewish Synagogue is in traditional style with a separate entrance for the women. A tomb inscription is found in front of the Synagogue, believed to belong to one of its early members. The Department of Archaeology, in collaboration with the Jews abroad has arranged a display, which is kept inside and entitled 'The Jewish Synagogues in Kerala'.

Jewish House, Kottayil Kovilakom: 75 Jewish families once stayed in this Jews Street, in the, 15th century. Most of the Chendamangalam Jews have migrated to Israel leaving the Jewish community here almost extinct. At present, only 2 Jewish houses exist in their original form, the rest having been modified substantially.

Holy Cross Church, Kottayil Kovilakom: This church still functions in the same compound where the ruins of Vyppeekotta seminary are seen. It was probably built during the same period, but renovated later.

Vypeekotta Seminary, Kottayil Kovilakom: The seminary, the college to teach the Christian priests, was established to teach the priests of Malabar the ceremonies and language to be used in Roman Catholic Churches founded here by the Portuguese.

Pottery: In early days, Chendamangalam was famous for pottery items such as cooking pots, plates, and special vessels for conducting pooja in temples. The objects were made in a conventional way, by ramming the earth into desirable shapes and firing them to very high temperatures. This craft was held closely by a particular community.

Pappad Making: Konkani people who have settled here make pappads in the traditional way. From early days, Pappad has been a traditional item consumed at all functions. The taste of Pappad had a wide appeal and because it was easy to prepare, demand for it was encouraged. However, there are only a few people in the business now.

Bell Metal Industry: Chendamangalam was the home of bell metal. Metal work is an ancient art of Kerala, where the production of temple bells and lamps has been in existence from very early times. Gleaming bell metal alloyed from a mixture of brass, tin and copper provide the raw substance for making the tower-like lamps that Kerala is noted for.