Santhome Cathedral Basilica stands tall in the southern part
of Marina beach. It is located at the end
of Kuthchery Road in Mylapore. It was built
as a tribute to St Thomas who was buried
here. The name Santhome is derived from
St Thomas. It is a holy place of worship
especially for the Catholics.
The church has been built in the Gothic
style of architecture. Some of the important
sights here include the stain glass painting
of the divine moment of St Thomas’s
Thomas's meeting with the resurrected
Christ. Remains of St Thomas along with
a part of the bone have been preserved
here. This church has seen several renovations
having been made. The building is about
50 mts high. It has the distinction of
being the second church built on the burial
of an apostle.
Santhome Cathedral Basilica has a statue
of Virgin Mary which is supposed to have
been imported from Portugal. The cathedral
was raised to the status of a Basilica
by Pope Pious XII. Thenceforth the church
has seen thousands of pilgrims coming
from far and wide. It is a famous place
of worship and also a favorite place for
tourists. Its gothic architecture makes
the cathedral look magnificent and is
a feast to the eye. The church had been
damaged due to the ravages of time, but
has been periodically renovated to regain
its pats glory. There is a museum attached
to the church as well.
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