Must-visit Famous Churches in Kerala

The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is located at Fort Kochi and is one of the eight Basilicas in India. Located on K.B. Jacob Road in Fort Kochi, this beautiful roman catholic church serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Kochi. The church is the second cathedral built by the Portuguese. The first one was used by the Dutch to store ammunition and was later destroyed by the Britishers. The construction of this second cathedral took place from 1876-1905, and it was consecrated on November 19, 1905.

St. Francis Church in Kochi, which finely exhibits Portuguese architecture, is believed to be one of a kind amongst all the European churches which were constructed in India. It was constructed in the 15th century by the Portuguese traders. Vasco-da-Gama, the famous explorer, was buried in this church when he died in 1524, on his third visit to India. His remains were moved to Lisbon after fourteen years but his gravestone is still present in the church.

With murals on its walls and ceilings, this 1875-built Roman Catholic Minor Basilica has the largest church interior in South India. It is adorned with 140 ft long steeple, which is visible from anywhere in the town. The chapel has 15 altars and boasts of neo Gothic spires. It is locally famous by the name of Puthen Palli.

An epitome of craftsmanship, this Catholic Rosary Church is said to have been established in the early 16th century. Situated near Thalassery Fort, this church comes in the league of the oldest churches in Kerala. The structure exhibits the fascinating stained glass work brought from London. Located close to the church are two other popular spot of Thalassery i.e. Thalassery Fort and Brennen Cemetery.

Located at a distance of 5 kms east of Pala in Bharananganam, Kottayam, St. Mary’s Church holds the mortal remains of St. Alphonsa (1910- 1946). Born as Anna Muttathupadathu, St. Alphonsa was an Indian religious sister and educator. She was the first Indian woman to be canonised as a Saint by the Catholic Church and also the first canonised saint in Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, an Eastern Catholic Church in India. Her death anniversary falls on the 28th of July which is a highly revered day when the church is thronged by devotees in huge numbers to visit to pay homage to the saint and to seek her blessings.

Situated on the banks of river Pampa, Edathua Church is also known as St. George Forane Church is dedicated to St. George. Built in 1810, the church is believed to possess miraculous healing powers. Praying at this holy site has healed many of mental disorders and other medical issues. The charming church is constructed in the style of medieval European brilliant architecture, with majestic arches and gigantic pillars. Considered as a venerated site and an important religious spot among the Christians, the church is also celebrated and visited by Hindus.

One of the most popular and sought after pilgrimage centre in north Kerala, Pallikkunnu Church is also referred to as 'Our Lady of Lourdes'. Situated about 19 km away from Kalpetta, this Latin Catholic Church was conceived by a famous priest Fr.Jefreno in the year 1908. The Church is a Latin-catholic church and an important religious centre for Christians in Northern Kerala. A significant event of the year is Pallikunnu Church festival, which goes on for about 16-days.

CSI Christ Church is over a century old church famous for its religious & historic significance and its gothic style architecture. The church was built in the memory of the beloved wife of Henry Knight, Ilianor Knight, in the early 1900s. The site also served as a cemetery for the British Planters. The structure is made of granite and is adorned with beautiful stained glass work and brass plaques.

St. Andrew’s Basilica at Arthunkal in the district of Alappuzha, is considered to be the largest shrine of Saint Sebastian in all of the world. Originally constructed by the Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century, the church was rebuilt in 1584 under the priest Jacomo Fenicio who was believed to possess powers to heal body and mind, and was popularly known as ‘Arthunkal Veluthachan’ translating to ‘fair-skinned father’.

St. Maryês Church, Cheriapally was built in 1579. It belongs to Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church and is one of the oldest orthodox churches in the country. The Metropolitans of the church belonged to 3 families in the region. The beautiful structure is an amalgamation of Kerala and Persian style of architecture that has been preserved very well.