Cannanore

Cannanore
Name	Cannanore
Settlement type	City
Pushpin label position	right
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	India
Subdivision type1	State
Subdivision name1	Kerala
Subdivision type2	District
Subdivision name2	Kannur district
Unit pref	Metric
Population density km2	auto
Timezone1	IST
Utc offset1	+5:30
Postal code type	PIN
Postal code	670001
Area code type	Telephone code
Area code	0497
Registration plate	KL-13, KL-59

Cannanore. A historic port city on the Malabar Coast of Kerala, it is the administrative headquarters of Kannur district. Renowned for its pivotal role in the Indian Ocean trade and as a former colonial stronghold, the city is a vibrant blend of rich heritage, distinctive arts, and coastal geography.

History

The region's history is deeply intertwined with the ancient Kerala kingdom of Kolathunadu, ruled by the Kolathiri dynasty. By the 15th century, it emerged as a major hub for the spice trade, attracting merchants from the Arab world and later Portugal. The Portuguese, led by Vasco da Gama and Pedro Álvares Cabral, established a trading post and built the iconic St. Angelo Fort in 1505. Control later passed to the Dutch and then the British, who made it part of the Madras Presidency. The city was a significant center during the Malabar Rebellion and later the Indian independence movement, with figures like A. K. Gopalan hailing from the region.

Geography

Situated on the northern Malabar Coast, the city features a varied landscape of laterite hills and a coastline along the Laccadive Sea. It is bounded by the Anjarakandy River to the north and the Valapattanam River, one of Kerala's longest, to the south. The coastline includes prominent features like Muzhappilangad Beach, known for its long drive-in shore. The region experiences a tropical monsoon climate under the Köppen climate classification, heavily influenced by the southwest monsoon.

Demographics

As per the latest Census of India, the urban agglomeration is a linguistic and religious mosaic. Malayalam is the predominant language, with significant usage of Tulu and Konkani. Religious composition includes a major Hindu community, along with substantial Muslim and Christian populations. The city is part of the Kannur Lok Sabha constituency and has a high literacy rate, consistent with the state's overall performance in education in India.

Economy

Traditionally dependent on the handloom industry, particularly the famed Cannanore towels, the economy has diversified. Key sectors include beedi rolling, a significant source of employment, and fisheries based out of ports like Azheekal. The establishment of industrial parks and the growth of information technology services are modern developments. Tourism, centered on historical sites like the Arakkal Museum and Parassinikadavu Temple, also contributes substantially to the local economy.

Culture

The city is celebrated as the land of Theyyam, a vibrant ritualistic dance form central to the folk culture of North Malabar. It is also famous for its distinctive Mappila songs, a synthesis of Arab and Malayalam musical traditions. The annual celebration of Kannur Tourism Festival showcases its cultural heritage. The city's culinary identity is marked by Malabar cuisine, featuring dishes like biriyani and sea food. Renowned educational institutions like the Government Brennen College have fostered a strong literary and artistic tradition.

Administration

Civic administration is managed by the Kannur Municipal Corporation, with the city serving as the headquarters of Kannur district. The law and order is under the jurisdiction of the Kannur City Police. It houses important judicial bodies like the Kannur District Court and several government offices for the district. The city is represented in the Parliament of India by the Kannur Lok Sabha member and by multiple constituencies in the Kerala Legislative Assembly.

Category:Cities in Kerala Category:Kannur district