Kerala, known for lush green valleys, beautiful sceneries, hidden lakes, and most importantly known as the “God’s Own Country”, has everything a local and a tourist could ask and look out for. Kerala gives all the major touring vibes and goals to nature lovers and religious ones. Kerala is home to the most beautiful churches with astonishing and brilliant architecture and designs. Here, in this article, we have listed down some of the famous churches in Kerala that are worth visiting.
List of Top 10 Famous Churches in Kerala
1. Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi
Located at Fort Kochi, Santa Cruz Basilica of the eight Basilicas in India and is also one of the best ancient churches in Kerala. This exquisite Roman Catholic Church serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Kochi. Santa Cruz is the second cathedral built by the Portuguese. The first was used by the Dutch to store ammunition but was later destroyed by the Britishers. Later, the construction of the second cathedral took place from 1876-1905 and was consecrated on November 19, 1905. This church is highly known for Indo-European, Gothic Architecture Murals, Frescos, and historical paintings.
2. St. Francis Church, Kochi
Located in Fort Kochi, Kerala, St. Francis Church is one of the topmost tourist attractions of Kochi that date back to 1503. Vasco Da Gama was buried here in 1524 on his third visit to India and 14 years later his holy remains were located in Lisbon, Portugal. The timber-framed roof covered with tiles, white facade, fresco, and stained glasses captivates the attention of the tourists and the visitors. There is a cenotaph lying on the lawn that was built in the living memories of Kerala people who laid down their lives in the First World War.
3. St. George Church, Ernakulam
Located in Edapally, Kochi, St. Gregorious of Parumala established this church in 1905 in Ernakulam district of Kerala. This is one of the top churches in Kerala that attracts devotees and admirers from all over India. A Syrian monk named Kadamattathu Kathanar with mystical powers and unnatural capabilities is believed to be closely associated with this church. The church is designed in Indo-Persian style and an eye-catching feature is its old Persian cross with its four equal arms tipped with floral designs.
4. Tomb of Saint Alphonsa, Kottayam
Located at Bharananganam, Kottayam, Kerala, St. Alphonsa’s church is one of the beautiful churches in Kerala. The Church was established after the canonization of St. Alphonsa – one of the famous saints in India who was an Indian religious sister and educator and whose mortal remains were buried here in 1946 and the tomb is considered a significant site for people congo from all parts of Kerala. The glass portrait of the saint inside the church and the beautiful garden, fountain makes it one of the most famous churches in Kerala. St. Alphonsa is a very famous feast here that falls on the 28th of July and devotees throng here to seek blessings.
5. Lourdes Forane Church, Trivandrum
Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, Lourdes Forane is yet another popular and beautiful church in India. It is known for its overwhelming serenity and elegance. The interior woodwork, framed altars, arches, and paintings reflect the glories of the past and enhance the charming quotient of the church. If you visiting Kerala or reside in Kerala and are not aware of this church, then you must visit this holy shrine with your family and friends to seek and spend quality time in peace and serenity.
6. Catholic Rosary Church, Thalassery- Tellicherry
An epitome of craftsmanship, this Catholic Rosary Church is believed to be established in the early 16th century. Situated in Thalassery Fort, this is one of the oldest churches in Kerala. This structure exhibits the fascinating stained glass work from London. This is yet another church that is pleasant and spiritual. If you are visiting this church you can also visit two other popular spots of Thalassery that are Thalassery Fort and Brennen Cemetery.
7. Arthunkal Church (St. Andrew’s Basilica, Arthunkal)
located in Alappuzha, St. Andrews Basilica aka Arthunkal is one of the famous churches in Kerala that was built in the 16th century by the Portuguese missionaries. This place possesses a marvelous statue of St. Sebastian that is imported from Italy and is considered one of the largest shrines of St. Sebastian hence derived the name. There is a common belief that this church is often visited after offering prayers at Sabarimala Temple. Crowned as a Basilica in 2010, this church attracted numerous Christians and non-Christian devotees throughout the year mostly during the Arthunkal feast that is organized annually during mid-Jan.
8. Pallikunnu Church, Wayanand
Pallikunnu is a beautiful Latin Catholic Church located in Meenangadi, Wayanad. This church offers mesmerizing views of lush green surroundings and it also offers a tranquil peace of serenity. This church was built by the French priest Fr. Jefreno in 1908 and is considered one of the most significant churches in Kerala. Indeed, many of the traditions and ceremonies resemble that of Hindi Temples.
9. Vimalagiri Church, Kottayam
Located in Keezhukunnu, Kottayam, Vimalagiri Church is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. The church is popular as Angathattu Palli and the deity of Mother Mary is known as Vimalabika. Displaying beautiful Gothic Style architecture, Vimalagiri is one of the most famous churches in Kerala with the tallest church towers of 172ft in the entire state. If you want to experience the best architecture and seek peace and blessings from the holy shrine, then you must visit this church with your family and friends.
10. Nadamel Marth Mariam Church, Kochi
