St. Francis Church is The largest Church in India. Located in Kerala and it is also known as the oldest European church in India.
India is home to several impressive and historically significant churches, reflecting the country’s cultural and religious diversity. Among them, the largest churches stand as magnificent symbols of faith and architectural prowess. These structures not only serve as places of worship but also attract visitors with their grandeur and historical significance.
List of Largest Churches in India:
- Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni: Located in Velankanni, Tamil Nadu, this basilica is a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of Good Health. It attracts millions of devotees annually and features a stunning Gothic-inspired architecture.
- Se Cathedral, Goa: Situated in Old Goa, the Se Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Asia. Known for its Portuguese-Gothic style, it houses the famous Golden Bell, one of the largest in the world.
- St. Philomena’s Church, Mysuru: This neo-gothic church in Mysuru, Karnataka, is dedicated to St. Philomena and is one of the most majestic churches in India. Its twin spires dominate the skyline of the city.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this basilica in Old Goa is renowned for housing the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier. The baroque architecture and rich history make it a significant religious and cultural landmark.
- St. Mary’s Basilica, Bangalore: Located in Shivajinagar, Bangalore, this basilica is one of the oldest churches in the city. It is known for its architectural beauty, including stained glass windows and gothic-style spires.
- St. George’s Cathedral, Chennai: The mother church of the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, St. George’s Cathedral is an Anglican church in Chennai. Its colonial-style architecture and historical importance make it a notable religious site.
- Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, New Delhi: This cathedral, located in the heart of the national capital, is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Delhi. It features a Roman architectural style and serves as a significant center for Catholic worship in North India.
Explanation of Each Church:
- Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health, Velankanni: The basilica is renowned for its miraculous healing powers and the annual Velankanni Matha festival. Pilgrims from all over the country visit to seek the blessings of Our Lady of Good Health.
- Se Cathedral, Goa: Built in the 16th century, the Se Cathedral is dedicated to St. Catherine and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Goa. The Golden Bell, also known as the “Bell of the Inquisition,” is a major attraction.
- St. Philomena’s Church, Mysuru: The church’s architecture is reminiscent of medieval European churches, with beautiful stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Christ. It is a popular tourist destination and an active place of worship.
- Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Basilica of Bom Jesus is a prime example of baroque architecture in India. Pilgrims and tourists alike visit to witness the preserved body of St. Francis Xavier.
- St. Mary’s Basilica, Bangalore: This basilica, with its towering spires and intricate architecture, is a landmark in Bangalore. The annual St. Mary’s Feast attracts a large number of devotees.
- St. George’s Cathedral, Chennai: With its serene ambiance and colonial architecture, St. George’s Cathedral is a peaceful retreat in the bustling city of Chennai. It holds historical significance and is a prominent Anglican church in South India.
- Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, New Delhi: The cathedral, with its Roman-style architecture, serves as a prominent Catholic church in the national capital. It is a center for religious activities and is known for its serene surroundings in the midst of the busy city.
