Quick Facts

History & Significance

• Ancient Port: Known as Calicut, it was a major trading port for spices, silk, and cotton.
• Zamorin Rule: The city was ruled by the Zamorins (Samuthiris) – powerful Hindu kings.
• European Contact: In 1498, Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese explorer, landed at Kappad Beach, opening the sea route to India.
• Colonial History: Controlled by Portuguese, then Dutch, Mysore Sultanate (Tipu Sultan), and finally the British.