St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral Basilica, Cathedral basilica in Ernakulam district, India
St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral Basilica is a place of worship in Ernakulam district featuring two 68-foot towers crowned with statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, plus an 88-foot bell tower containing large bells. Inside, the altar displays a plaster relief of the Last Supper created by artist K. K. Madhavan alongside murals showing biblical stories.
The cathedral was established in 1112 and underwent major renovation in 1905 under Mar Louis Pazheparambil's direction. It received basilica status from Pope Paul VI in 1974, recognizing its importance in the Catholic Church.
This cathedral serves as the spiritual center for the Syro-Malabar Catholic community and follows distinct Eastern Christian traditions in its worship practices. Visitors can observe the particular style of prayer and church arrangement that reflects this ancient Christian heritage.
The cathedral is accessible on foot and visitors should dress modestly out of respect for the sacred space. Early morning hours are ideal for a quieter visit when fewer worshippers are present.
Saint Francis Xavier stayed at this location between 1542 and 1552, marking it as a site of early Christian missionary work in India. This historical connection often goes unnoticed by visitors focused on the building's architecture.
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