In continuation of the effort to conserve Pulicat’s built and natural heritage, AARDE Foundation organises its third annual ‘Trace Origin of Madras’ heritage walk, as part of Madras Week celebrations, on August 23, at Pazhaverkadu, Tiruvallur District.
Pulicat is well-known for its lagoon that covers an area of 720sq.km, and attracts more than 30,000 migratory birds every season. The lagoon also has historical significance, as it was part of trade routes for more than 1,000 years linking Japan, Europe and Indonesia. On arrival of the Portuguese in 1502 AD, Pulicat found a prominent place on maritime trade routes due to its natural profile and also because it was a hub of trade in South India. From 1602 AD, the lagoon grew in commercial importance, witnessing the birth of the East India Company, and the creation of the first stock exchange in Amsterdam. Remnants of Fort Geldria, Dutch House, and two cemeteries in Pulicat are evidence of the birth of European political administration and the struggle of the British to establish its trading post in India. The British went to establish its permanent settlement in Mylapore at the present-day Fort St. George from 1639 to 1947AD.
According to AARDE Foundation trustee Xavier Benedict, the half-day walk will highlight the historical and culturally significant links of Madras, the lagoon ecology, and also include a visit to the recently excavated Madras Week Celebration site, and a live demonstration of the centuries-old palm-leaf craft at a trader’s house. The walk will also include a visit to the church dating back to1515 AD, considered to be the first in South-East India, 400-year-old cemeteries, and Dutch buildings.
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The tour will start at 6.30 a.m. from Nungambakkam on AC coaches. Food and beverages will be provided.
To register, email info@aarde.in or contact 044-42139961.