Global Spice Routes Conclave to unveil Heritage Network

Declaration of the Spice Routes Heritage Network and Charter presentation will set the stage for engaging conversations at the three-day international Spice Routes Conference scheduled in Kochi from January 6, 2026, spotlighting on the shared maritime and cultural heritage and its continued relevance in the global narrative.

Event Details
- Dates: January 6–8, 2026
- Venue: Historic Bolgatty Palace, Kochi (Ernakulam)
- Organizers: Muziris Heritage Project in collaboration with the Kerala Tourism Department

Purpose
- Launch of the Spice Routes Heritage Network and presentation of its Charter.
- Designed as an intellectual and cultural platform reconnecting the ancient Spice Route with today’s global discourse.
- Aims to position Kerala as a living crossroads of global heritage and maritime civilization.

Themes & Sessions
- Governing and sustaining transnational heritage corridors
- Heritage tourism & sustainability
- Reimagining Spice Routes for tourism
- Digital Spice Routes
- Muziris re-imagined
- Knowledge traditions in the region

Cultural & Experiential Highlights
- The Muziris Experience: curated heritage trails + traditional sea voyage
- Contemporary Art Engagement: visit to Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025–26
- Performing Traditions: Kerala Jewish songs & Chavittu Nadakam (Latin Christian classical dance-drama)
- Exhibitions: curated by Aazhi Archives, featuring works like Chavittunatakam (K R Sunil), Seeing is Believing (Biju Ibrahim), and Migrant Dreams

Participation
- 38 international delegates from 22 countries
- Attendees include academicians, historians, archaeologists, diplomats, policymakers, tourism stakeholders, artists, and performers

👉 In short: The Conclave is not just a conference—it’s a scholarly and sensory journey into Kerala’s maritime heritage, blending academic sessions with immersive cultural experiences.