![]() The fort is now a museum maintained by the State Archaeological department of Tamil Nadu which exhibits a collection of artefacts from the time of Danish presence in the region. This includes Danish articles, Danish coins, palm leaf, terracotta figures and bowls and even the weapons used by them like swords and spears. The Zeigenbalg Monument pays homage to the achievements of Barthlomeus Zeigenbalg, and Plutschau of Germany. On he orders of the Danish King Frederick IV they arrived in India with the aim of providing religious and public services here. They were keenly interested in learning the Tamil language and Zeigenblag mastered the language in two years. He translated a Tamil book titled "Ulaga Needhi" (Universal Justice) into German. An international exhibition at London hosts another of his great works titled, "An account of the Malabarians." The press was utilized to print the first Tamil version of the Holy Bible (New Testament) in 1715 AD. ![]() The Christian missionaries contributed a lot too towards the construction of monuments in Tranquebar. Zion's Church, for instance, was built in 1701. It has a curious spiked dome, which is a local landmark. The bell is dated 1752. Within is a painting of the Last Supper in coloured relief on wood. Situated opposite to it is the Lutheran Mission Church (New Jerusalem), built in 1717 by Lieutenant Claus Krockel on the plan of a Greek cross in a primitive Euro-Indian Baroque style. Both lie towards the east end of King Street. A number of colonial houses and buildings have survived, including the Old Hospital or Governor Hansen's House (late 18th century; altered), which lies beyond Zion's Church on the north side of the street. Almost opposite, the 'Convent' (late 18th century) has similar characteristics but with a high square tower, known as John's Tower, after a local missionary. The Tea Club (early 19th century) is noteworthy for its simple Doric order. Many of the former Danish mansions warrant close inspection for their interesting details and distinctively Danish nuances. Due to the ravages of time, many monuments in Tranquebar were in a state of slow destruction. Now however consolidated efforts are being made towards the conservation of these upholders of history and culture. |