The port city of Kochi (long known as Cochin) is located on a cluster of islands and narrow peninsulas half way up the Goan coast. The majority of tourists stay in the Ernakulam district but the old section of Mattancherry and Fort Cochin is the main focus of interest. All linked by a series of ferries and bridges, these districts are an unlikely blend of medieval Portuguese, Dutch and English architecture. Near the waterfront are St Francis Church (India's oldest), a 16th century Portuguese palace and a synagogue dating back 450 years. Set among all this are spice markets and a village green that could have been transported from rural England. The architecture follows the history of European influence. Kochi came to prominence in 1405 when the royal family moved here and the city became an important harbor attracting Christian, Jewish and Arab settlers from the Middle East. The Portuguese arrived in the early 16th century, followed by the Dutch and later the English. One of Kochi's main attractions is the Kathakali dance which can be seen at one of many special tourist theaters, or, more authentically one performed by a temple-based company. The best way to explore the town is on bicycle, which can be hired from a number of companies.