Pallipuram Fort is one of the famous and oldest remaining forts in Kerala. It is located in Kochi district and is popularly known as Ayikkotta. It is the oldest existing European fort in India. In 1503 the Portuguese built the Pallipuram Fort. It is now a heritage site protected by the Kerala State Department of Archaeology. The fort boasts about magnificent European architectural style. Tourists from different places come to visit this historical edifice.

History of Pallipuram Fort
Pallipuram Fort located in the beautiful land of Kochi has a rich history. The fort has witnessed the rule of many mighty rulers and has been under the patronage of several Kingdoms. In the year 1661 the fort was captured by the Dutch invaders who had come to India in search of Indian spices. These spices were then quite popular in the Western countries. With the help of strategies and diplomacies Raja Kesava Dasan had purchased the fort from the Dutch. Raja Kesava Dasan was the ruler of the State of Travancore in the year 1789.

Architecture of Pallippuram Fort
The Pallippuram Fort is an exquisite example of its architectural beauty. The fort is of a hexagonal structure. The hexagonal structure of the fort was very fruitful for the inhabitants, as it enabled them to keep an eye on enemies or invader from the six walls of the monument. The height of the lower floor is raised to five feet from ground. The fort houses a cellar that was used for storing gunpowder. The gunpowder was used during invasions. The fort also has a wall which used to be a source of fresh water. Towards the northern direction of the Pallippuram Fort there is an opening which leads to the cellar. In ancient times the cellar was used to imprison the captured enemies. The walls of this beautiful fort are almost six feet thick, and the face of the fort measures a gigantic 32 feet in length and 34 feet in height.

Pallippuram Fort is easily accessible by rail, road and air. It is well connected by an extended network of roadways. Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport, situated 40 km away from the fort. The nearest railway line, is the Ernakulam Railway Station situated 20kms from this fort.