Ancient Church Sites | History Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

St. Thomas Church, Palayuur

• Thomas Church in Palayur, Kerala, is the oldest church in India, founded in 52 A.D. by St. Thomas the Apostle. 
• It is one of the seven churches established by St. Thomas himself. 
• In 2020, the church was designated as the first Archdiocesan pilgrim centre. 
• The church contains relics of St. Thomas brought from Ortona, Italy. 
• One of the notable events held annually is the 30 km Lenten Mahatheerthdanam, a foot pilgrimage from Thrissur to Palayur. 

St. George’s Syro-Malabar Catholic Forane Church, Kochi

• The Church has a long history, dating back to its construction in 594 AD.
• Due to the growing congregation, a larger church was built next to the old one in 1080 AD.

Popularity:

• The Church is well-known and visited by both Christians and non-Christians.

Francis Church, Kochi

• Known as the "Vasco Da Gama Palli" because Vasco Da Gama, who died in 1524 during his third visit to Kochi, was initially buried here.
• The Portuguese later took his body back to Lisbon after 14 years.

History of the Church:

• Built by the Portuguese, the church faced several invasions over time.
• Dutch Invasion (1662). The Dutch invaded Kochi and converted the church, adding Dutch-style communion tables and furniture.
• British Renovation (1795). The British renamed and renovated the church after the Dutch surrendered it to them following their defeat in the invasion of Kochi.

Gravestones:

• Portuguese gravestones are located on the north wall of the church.
• Dutch gravestones are found on the south wall of the church.

Present Administration:

• The Church of South India (CSI) , the successor of the Church of England, took over the administration of the church after Indian independence.

Santa Cruz Basilica, Kochi

History and Foundation:

• The foundation of the cathedral was laid in 1505. It is believed to be named after the day of the invention of the Holy Cross.
• Pope Paul IV elevated the church to the status of a cathedral in 1598.

Invasions and Changes:

• The church was first captured by the Dutch, who used it as an arms storehouse.
• Later, it was partially destroyed by the British.
• One of the original granite pillars from the structure is still preserved in the current building.

Basilica Status and Art:

• In 1984, Pope John Paul II granted the church Basilica status.
• The church is known for its beautiful paintings by Brother Antonio Moscheni and his disciple De Gama from Mangalore.

Se Cathedral, Goa

• The Se Cathedral in Goa is one of the oldest and largest churches in Asia.
• Built by Roman Catholics during the Portuguese rule in Goa, it is considered larger than any cathedral in Portugal.
• The church is dedicated to St. Catherine of Alexandria because Alfonso Albuquerque defeated the Muslim army in Goa and established Portuguese rule on her feast day in 1510.
• Architecturally, the cathedral is a unique blend of Portuguese-Gothic style,. Tuscan exterior, and a Corinthian interior.

Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa

• The Basilica of Bom Jesus, also known as Borea Jezuchi Bajilika, is a UNESCO heritage site.
• It houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier, transported from Portugal two years after his death.
• St. Francis Xavier, along with St. Ignatius Loyola, founded the Society of Jesus, known as the Jesuits.
• St. Francis was believed to have remarkable healing powers and played a significant role in spreading Christianity in India.
• The church, over 400 years old, is named “Church of the Holy Jesus”.
• It features a stunning baroque architecture, with the initials “IHS” carved on the triangular roof.
• “IHS” stands for “Jesus, Saviour of Men,” the Jesuit emblem, representing the Holy Trinity of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.