Five oldest churches in Kerala to visit this holiday season

Also Read: How this German-born, Mysuru resident is recreating X’mas traditions 

St. Thomas Church, Palayur

This church is located in Palayur (also spelt as Palayoor) in Thrissur district. It dates to 52 AD and is considered as the first church not only in the state but in India as well.

It is one of the seven churches, which was founded by St. Thomas the Apostle. St Thomas was the first missionary to India. Known as the Apostolic Church, the church at Palayur is deemed extremely significant. It is the only church among the seven that stands on the same spot where St. Thomas established it centuries ago.

It is believed that the Apostle arrived here in 50 AD. After a miracle performed by him, a large part of Palayur’s population which mainly consisted of Brahmins and Jews converted to Christianity.

While the small original structure of the church has been retained, several modifications were made during the 17th century. In 2000, the church was elevated as the first Archdiocesan pilgrim centre.

Most devotees visit the church by covering the 30-km journey from Thrissur to Palayur on foot. While here, the boat jetty where the Apostle landed in Palayur, the holy pond aka Thaliyakulam where St Thomas baptized the local people, the ruins of an old temple, remains of an ancient Jewish synagogue and the historical museum are the key places of interest.

Also Read: Why Qatar World Cup was eggs-pensive for Christmas cake makers in Kerala

St Mary’s Orthodox Church, Niranam

Located about 10 km from Thiruvalla, this church also called Niranam Pally is again one of the oldest churches in the country dating back to 54 AD.

Established by St. Thomas the Apostle, the church has been reconstructed several times and the present building dates to 1912.

Also called Niranam Valiyapally Perunnal locally, the church houses the relics of St. Thomas. (Flickr)

“The earliest evidence of the building that was built in wood and stone dates back to 1259 AD. We have several parts of the original structure preserved in the nearby museum. Further, all the major events in the history of the church, right from 54 AD to 2021 have been recorded on stone. It has been preserved in the museum,” says Fr. Bibin Mathew, Assistant Vicar of the church.

The church has been the seat of several miracles and devotees have had extraordinary spiritual experiences during their visit here, he adds. Also called Niranam Valiyapally Perunnal locally, the church houses the relics of St. Thomas. It has several ancient palm leaf inscriptions apart from a tall granite cross present at the right side of the entrance.

Also Read: What’s the secret behind Mysore Sandal Soap’s historic sales in November 2023?

St. Andrew’s Church, Kovilthottam

A colonial era church that is believed to have been built during the rule of the Portuguese in India in 1398 AD, this one is located about 17 km from Kollam towards Alappuzha.

Often considered as one of the important centres of pilgrimage by the Christian community, St Andrew’s Church was rebuilt in 1779. Established in the Portuguese colonial style, this church is also a part of the 14th century Diocese of Quilon.

Flanked by the Arabian Sea in the west, the presence of the church makes the coastal village of Kovilthottam an important pilgrimage and tourist centre.

The present building was consecrated by the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Quilon, Stanley Roman in 2006.

Also Read: Kerala to host short film festival on autism; organisers call for entries

St. Francis CSI Church, Fort Kochi

This one is the oldest European churches built in India in 1503 by the Portuguese. The original structure, which was made of wood, stood in the middle of Fort Kochi. It was dedicated to St. Bartholomew. This wooden structure was replaced in 1516 with one made of mortar and bricks, and was then dedicated to St. Antony.

Since then, the church has been witness to several colonial powers including the Dutch and the British. After independence, the church has been under the administration of the Church of South India (CSI).

The church is steeped in history owing to the impressive architecture replete with a gabled timber framed roof and steep pinnacles.

“The St. Francis Church is a living and protected monument that has survived through centuries. It stands as a legacy of the Christian presence and social influence in the era of development of multicultural communities. The church is a welcoming space for anyone regardless of their nationality, caste, creed or colour. It upholds the unity of people groups. And it serves to spread the light of good news of Jesus Christ to the people around by being a place of peace and serenity,” says Rev. Kurian Peter, Vicar, St. Francis CSI Church, Fort Kochi.

Also read: The traditional ‘kolam’ finds a contemporary calling in fashion, food and fiction

St. George Orthodox Church- Koonankurishu Pally, Mattancherry

Built in the 17th century, this one is considered as an extremely revered site for devotees. The church occupies a prominent position among the other Orthodox churches of the country.

The church which houses the holy remains of St George is under the control of the Malankara Metropolitan. Often touted as a symbol of resilience, the church is an important historic monument as well as a pilgrim centre.

The Holy Qurbana is conducted every Friday, and on alternate Sundays. The offering of Neyyappam by devotees for prayers fulfilled is a popular tradition in the church.

The building was recently renovated using eco friendly, stabilised earth blocks to recreate the Nubian arches, the altar and the aisles with a focus on improving natural light and air circulation. No steel was used and the usage of cement was minimal to reduce carbon emission.