On the south bank of the river Ariyankuppam is the quaint provincial town of Pondicherry with a long history behind it. Once one of the largest French colonies in India, international trade with this city dates all the way back to the time of the Roman Empire, and its evidence can still be seen in Arikamedu.
Literary translated as ‘eroding mound’, the archaeological site of Arikamedu was the main work of Mortimer Wheeler in the 1940s. He deduced that it was a former Chola port specialized in bead-making that dates back to the 1st century B.C. It seemed to have been an important point in the inland trade routes along the river. In Tamil literature of the time the town was also known as ‘Yavanas’.
By counting all the amphora –clay pots used for storing wine- excavated during exploration of the site, the port was known for its wine trade across the region. Roman ships that brought in wine also imported olive oil and Garum sauce for the wealthy. Meanwhile, the locals exported beads, textiles and semiprecious gems to the West. Traces of beads from Arikamedu were found in cities like Alexandria along the Red Sea where the Romans used to trade. Copper coins that come from the times of Constantine show that the port was in use till 700 A.D. conflicting with the previous assumption that it was abandoned earlier on.
Chinese and other Asian pottery shows more evidence that Arikamedu was an important stop for many sailors of the past. All these ancient beads and pots can be seen in the museum near the archaeological site. But as the city fell into ruin with the fall of trade, and was only revived in for a short time in the 1770 when a French seminary was built there. Its ruins can be seen in the site as well. Explore the overgrown ruins on your own to find the town lost in history.
Exploring similar sites of the city is easier if you stay at a Pondicherry hotel. The East – West mix is clearly seen in Hotel Atithi, a place that will make you feel at home. With modern amenities and comforts, it is everything you can want from your Pondicherry accommodation.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers. Google+
