Santhome Basilica Mylapore
Santhome Basilica Mylapore
Santhome Basilica in Mylapore, Chennai, India is a famous and historic church dedicated to Saint Thomas the Apostle. The Church has a long and interesting history, beginning with the arrival of St. Thomas in India in the 1st century. St.Thomas is said to have arrived in Kerala, India in 52 AD. and preached the gospel all over the country including Tamil Nadu. According to tradition, he built several churches in the area, including one in Mylapore, where Santhom Cathedral now stands. St. Thomas is said to have traveled extensively in Tamil Nadu, preaching to many people and converting them to Christianity. He also performed many miracles, such as healing the sick and raising the dead. However, not everyone accepted St. Thomas's message, and in some places, he faced opposition and persecution. According to tradition, he was eventually martyred for his faith at Mylapore, where the Santom Basilica now stands. Santhome Basilica has a long and interesting history. Originally said to have been built by Saint Thomas himself, the current building was rebuilt by the Portuguese in the 16th century. Over the years, the church has undergone many changes and renovations and today it is a beautiful and important landmark in Chennai.
Santhome Basilica has played an important role in the religious and cultural life of Chennai for many years. It is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists who come to see the beautiful architecture, learn about the history of St. Thomas and the church, and participate in religious ceremonies.
In short, Santhome Basilica in Mylapore is an interesting and important church with a long and interesting history. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Thomas and his mission to spread the Gospel throughout India and remains an important landmark and religious center today.
The basilica was built in a combination of Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles. The church has several beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of St. Thomas, including his arrival in India, missionary work, and martyrdom.
The church also contains several relics of St. Thomas, including fragments of his bones and a spearhead believed to have been used to kill him. Located in a crypt under the main altar of the church, the relic is of great interest to pilgrims and visitors.
One of the most interesting aspects of Santhome Cathedral is its connection with Portugal. The Portuguese came to India at the beginning of the 16th century and contributed greatly to the restoration of the churches of Mylapore. The Portuguese influence can still be seen in the architecture and decoration of the church. The traditional church organ is another big attraction. The organ was built in the 19th century by the famous French organ builder Aristide Cavail-Cole and was placed in Santomus Cathedral in the early 20th century. The organ is one of the few surviving musical instruments in the world and is still used during church services.
Santhome Basilica Mylapore- Organ
Santhome Basilica is also an important cultural center of Chennai. Various events and festivals are held here throughout the year, including the St. Thomas Festival in July, which attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India.
In recent years, the church has been restored several times to preserve its historical and cultural significance. The church was declared a basilica by the Vatican in 1956 in recognition of its importance as the center of Christianity in India.
Tomb of St. Thomas - Santhome Basilica Mylapore
Overall, Santhome Basilica is an interesting and beautiful church, full of history and tradition. It is a testament to the enduring legacy of St. Thomas and his mission to spread Christianity in India and remains an important cultural and religious center today.Visit Santhome Basilica Mylapore >>>Click Here <<<<<
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