Pizhala is an island near Kochi surrounded by river Periyar. It is the central part and Capital of Kadamakkudy , Kanayannur Taluk, Ernakulam District in the Indian state of Kerala. The name Pizhala is derived from the Portuguese words paz na ilha, which mean 'peace on island'. Pizhala island was formed naturally due to the great floods of Periyar in 1341 AD, which choked the Muziris Port (near present-day Kodungallur), one of the greatest ports in Ancient World.