When did Vasco da Gama land at Kozhikode?
Vasco da Gama landed at Kozhikode on the 20th of May 1498, opening the first sea route between Europe and India. This event marked the beginning of sustained European presence on the Malabar Coast.
Questions about Kozhikode
Short answers, pulled from the story.
What is the origin of the word calico and its connection to Kozhikode?
The word calico, referring to a fine hand-woven cotton fabric, is believed to derive from Calicut, the anglicised name for Kozhikode. The fabric was exported from the port of Kozhikode and carried the city's name into the English language.
When did UNESCO recognise Kozhikode as a City of Literature?
UNESCO recognised Kozhikode as a City of Literature in 2023, making it the first Indian city to receive that designation.
Who were the Zamorins of Calicut and how did Kozhikode become their capital?
The Zamorins, whose title derived from the Malayalam Samoothiri, were the rulers of an independent medieval kingdom based in Kozhikode. The city was founded in the 13th century after the Eradis of Nediyiruppu won control of the area following a 48-year conflict and shifted their headquarters there from Nediyiruppu.
What did the traveller Ibn Battuta write about Kozhikode?
Ibn Battuta visited Kozhikode six times between 1342 and 1347 and described it as one of the great ports of Malabar where merchants from all parts of the world were found. He noted that individual Muslim merchants there were wealthy enough to purchase the entire cargo of visiting ships.
What was the significance of the Dutch East India Company's treaty with Kozhikode in 1604?
On the 11th of November 1604, the Dutch East India Company signed its first-ever treaty with an Indian ruler, forming an alliance with Kozhikode to expel the Portuguese from Malabar. In return, the Dutch received trading rights in Kozhikode and Ponnani, including spacious storehouses.