St Mary’s Cathedral of Kandanad

St Mary's Cathedral of Kandanad is an Orthodox church building located in the Ernakulam district of Kerala, featuring architectural elements typical of religious structures in the region. The structure displays characteristic features of local building traditions and is defined by its carefully crafted design.

The church marks a long Christian presence in the region, with a granite cross bearing inscriptions from 1672 documenting the placement of the cornerstone for the current building. This monument shows how the Orthodox community has put down roots at this location over the centuries.

This cathedral serves as the central church for the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church in the Kandanad Diocese and represents Oriental Orthodox traditions. It embodies a centuries-old Christian presence in the region that is reflected in the practices and daily life of its community.

The building is located in the Ernakulam district and is easily accessible by local transport. Visitors should be prepared for traditional church practices and wear appropriate clothing to show respect for this sacred place.

The church was originally located at PalliMala, near the ancient trading port of Uthiyanperoor. This earlier site had strong connections to the ancient trade routes that shaped the region.