Kollam, Ancient seaport city in Kerala, India
Kollam is a large coastal city in Kerala state on the southwestern shore of India, stretching along Ashtamudi Lake. The lake branches into eight arms that shape the cityscape and connect residential quarters with commercial and industrial zones.
In the 9th century the place was an important harbor for trade with China and the Middle East. Portuguese and Dutch merchants came later and established trading posts along the lakeshore.
Residents use the many waterways for daily transport, moving between neighborhoods in small boats and ferries. Fishermen bring their catch directly to the shore, where markets form spontaneously and shape the local cuisine.
The street network is compact and most places are reachable on foot or by auto rickshaw. Early morning brings heavy traffic on the waterways, while afternoon heat slows the pace throughout the city.
Old Chinese fishing nets made of bamboo and rope still stand in the shallow water and are operated by hand. Fishermen lower them slowly into the water and lift them back to the surface filled with fish.
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