We all know that Kerala is known for its exquisite Western Ghats, rich green valleys, silvery waterfalls, hidden lakes and awe-inspiring backwaters, the list is not over yet, once you are done exploring these natural wonders of Kerala, spare some time for the gorgeous churches of Kerala. You don’t have to be religious to visit these stunning architectures. We guarantee you will even forget to blink your eye once you visit these famous churches with your Kerala tour packages.
So, let’s explore the list:
1. Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi
A standout amongst the most acclaimed houses of worship in Kerala, Santa Cruz Basilica is one among the 8 Basilicas. The place is a delightful church situated in Fort Kochi. Known for fantastic Indo-European and Gothic design, frescos and murals, historical paintings, this church is over 500 years of age and was built in 1500 CE, during the onset of Portuguese period. The church has seen many makeovers over the years with the last restoration done in the year 1905.
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| Image Courtesy: tourmyindia.com |
2. Nadamel Marth Mariam Church, Kochi
Another famous tourist attraction, Nadamel Marth Mariam Church was patronized by the Royal Family of Cochin and is one of the noteworthy names among Jacobite churches in Kerala. The royal family ensures all the traditions are followed and one that is of supreme importance is every new successor of the family has to make a personal visit to the church, meeting the leaders and bishops and offer sharkara thattu vijapur (jaggery) at the church.
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| Image Courtesy: wikimedia.org |
3. St. Francis Church, Kochi
Dated back to 1503, St. Francis Church is the first Christian church in Kerala and is the most popular tourist attraction. It is the place where in the year 1524 Vasco Da Gama was buried. The roof framed with timber is covered with tiles, frescos, stained glasses and white façade toss a dash of pleasure on every visitor. The church has a big lawn and, in the middle, stands a war memorial, in the loving memory of Kerala people who sacrificed their lives in the First world war.
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| Image Courtesy: keralatourism.org |
4. Lourdes Forane Church, Trivandrum
Lourdes Forane Church is one of the acclaimed holy places in Trivandrum, the Church has an overpowering elegance and serenity. The interiors are done with wood, the framed alter, paintings and arches showcase the past glories while enhancing the charismatic quotient of the place.
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| Image Courtesy: vastushilpalaya.com |
5. St. George Church, Ernakulam
Established in the year 1905 by St. Gregorious of Parumala, the place is known for possessing the Girdle of Mother Mary. People from every part of the world visit the place to seek the blessings of the holy St. George, globally known as Edappally Punyalan.
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6. Arthunkal Church, Alappuzha
The place is also known as the St. Andrews Basilica and is sited 22km. North of Alappuzha. Built in 16th Century by the missionaries of Portuguese, the church claims to be the world’s greatest Memorial of St. Sebastian. In the year 2010, the church was crowned as a basilica and since then it has been the centre of attraction for devotees of all origins. People visit this holy place throughout the year. The place celebrates Arthunkal feast every year in January.
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| Image Courtesy: keralatourism.org |
7. Vimalagiri Church, Kottayam
Bestowed with the Immaculate Heart of Mary, Vimalagiri Church is another famous tourist attraction. Popularly known as the Angathattu Palli, the church features a stunning Gothic style architecture. Another eminent feature of the church is its towers, approx. 172 ft., tallest in the state.
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8. Pallikunnu Church, Wayanad
Located at Meenangadi, Pallikunnu is a Latin catholic church, built in the year 1908, by Fr. Jefreno, a French priest in the name of “Our Lady of Lourdes”. The church is known for its selenic beauty and many of the traditions and ceremonies followed are similar to the Hindu temples.
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| Image Courtesy: tourkicks.com |
9. Catholic Rosary Church, Thalassery
Nothing less than a treasure to the state, the Catholic Rosary Church owes an incredible craftsmanship, with colonial architecture, frescos, stained glasses and an eclectic façade, it is a must visit place in your Kerala tour packages. The place is a perfect destination with beach and Thalassery fort.
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| Image Courtesy: thalassery.info |
10. St. Alphonsa’s Church, Bharananganam
Located in Bharananganam, district Kottayam, the generous red brick structure of St. Alphonsa’s Church is one of the picturesque Christian churches of Kerala. The congregation was built up after the canonization of a famous Indian saint, St. Alphonsa. In the year 1946, her mortal remains were buried here and hence the place became an important pilgrim for people visiting the place from various parts of the state. Every year in the month of July, the place celebrates St. Alphonsa’s feast, which is another important attraction for the tourists.
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| Image Courtesy: keralam.com |
We have done our work, now it’s time for you to book your package for Kerala and explore some of the most beautiful architectural pieces of the state.
