St. Mary, Queen of Peace Basilica, Minor basilica in Palayam, Thiruvananthapuram, India
St. Mary, Queen of Peace Basilica is a minor basilica located in the Palayam district that serves as a pro-cathedral for the Catholic community. The building features white walls and displays peaceful messages carved in various languages across its exterior surfaces.
Archbishop Mar Ivanios established this building in 1950 by laying its foundation stone, marking an important moment for the Catholic community in the region. The basilica gained international prominence when Pope John Paul II visited during his tour of India in 1986.
The basilica brings together Syro-Malankara Catholic practices and Roman Catholic traditions, showing how different Christian communities worship side by side in Kerala. You can see this blend reflected in the way the interior is arranged and how services are conducted throughout the week.
The building welcomes visitors throughout the week, with prayer services held regularly during morning and evening hours. Check local opening times before your visit, as religious holidays may affect access or require observing specific dress codes.
The basilica holds the remains of three archbishops who shaped the Catholic community: Mar Ivanios, Benedict Mar Gregorios, and Cyril Mar Baselios. This makes the building a kind of memorial space where significant religious figures from the region rest.
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