Strategies for conservation and maintenance of traditional spice market, Mattanchery, Kochi, Kerala

Abstract

The traditional spice markets have played a significant role in the development of historic cities in the world; they were developed through time in response to socioeconomic and cultural needs of the society. Spices are used in different ways. Today we think of spices primarily as condiments to use in cooking. But this has not always been the case. In ancient times they were treated as basic ingredients of incense, embalming preservatives, ointments, perfumes, cosmetics, medicines, and were used only to a limited extent in the kitchen. The history of the world is highly obliged to the history of spices. Thus, the markets became areas not just for the trading of goods, but were often the social, religious, and financial centres of cities. Mattanchery is a small coastal town, located in close proximity to the commercial hub - Cochin; Kerala. Many human settlements owe their origin and prosperity to trade and water transport. The Bazaar road, once the bustling market place of the region connects Fort Cochin to Mattanchery. Owing to urbanization and lack of conservation values, the town is in a state of urban decay. The history of the spice trade and the power of the architectural spaces in Mattanchery provide potent images and a marvellous urban typology. The vernacular buildings of Mattanchery offer countless opportunities for adaptive re-use