Thalassery Fort

The Thalassery Fort is an ancient monument in Thalassery also known as Tellicherry which is a town in the Kannur district of Kerala. It is situated on Thalassery beach on a rocky cliff. Established by the East India Company as a testimony to show the power and ability of the imperial rulers, the Thalaserry fort was built in 1703. It played a prominent role in the military as well as commercial activities of the English during their colonial rule in India.

The fort is now supervised by the Archaeological Survey of India and comprises a large gateway as well as a lighthouse. Near the fort also lies the bungalow of the sub-collector, St. Rosary Church, and Brennen cemetery. This historical fort has also experienced the making of the Malayalam movie Pazhassiraja.

The fort has a square shape, massive walls, and doors that are artistically carved. It has laterite blocks and walls with holes of loops which are aided by strong supporters.

History of Thalassery Fort

The East India Company established its settlement on the Malabar Coast in 1683. As they gained prominence, the British built a small fort with the permission of the Kolathiris, the then rulers of the land. The fort helped the British establish a stronghold in Malabar, and eventually, they made it their administrative center in 1776.

The fort became the strategic center for the military activities of the British. It was here that Arthur Wellesley planned his strategy to fight the great warrior, Pazhassi Raja.

After independence, the fort housed many government offices. Its historical significance was recognized later and handed over to the Department of Archaeology.

Architecture of Thalassery Fort

The fort was constructed in a strategic location to withstand all kinds of assaults or invasions.

It is said that a mixture of quicklime, white egg, and sugar candy was used in the construction of the fort that is flanked by bastions. Intricately carved doors, secret tunnels that lead to the sea, and a short lighthouse are some of the peculiarities of this colossal structure.

Two underground chambers were once used to store goods like pepper and cardamom. It is said that the coins of the East India Company were minted here.

From the fort premises, one can view the nearby Holy Rosary Church. Other centers of worship in the vicinity are the Sardar Palli (mosque) and the Jagannatha temple.