St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Catholic Cathedral Basilica, Cathedral basilica in Ernakulam district, India
St. Mary's Syro-Malabar Cathedral Basilica has a white facade with two towers, each topped by a blue-trimmed dome and a statue; the 68-foot towers carry statues of St. Peter and St. Paul, and the 88-foot bell tower has a statue of St. Thomas. Gold letters reading "ST. MARY'S CATHEDRAL BASILICA" stand above three arched panels with painted scenes, and two angel statues flank a black wrought-iron gate. The altar depicts the birth, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Founded in 1112, the church was rebuilt in the early 20th century under Mar Aloysius Pazheparambil. Pope Paul VI elevated it to a basilica on 20 March 1974. It serves as the headquarters of the Major Archeparchy of Ernakulam-Angamaly, the Primatal See of the Syro-Malabar 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.
As of March 2026 the cathedral is closed and under police protection because of a dispute over the mode of celebrating Mass. Only Holy Mass is suspended; other prayers may be held with special permission from the court. Check the current situation before travelling to the site.
The two 68-foot front towers carry statues of St Peter and St Paul, while the 88-foot bell tower is topped by a statue of St Thomas. Inside, a depiction of Jesus's apparition to St Thomas recalls the apostle's mission in Kerala.
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