5 Most Famous Churches To Visit In Chennai

Most commonly, Chennai is considered a gateway to Tamil Nadu, the land of thousands of beautiful temples. But do you believe when we say Chennai churches are also well known and famous? What is less known is that since the 1st century AD the city has been associated with Christianity for a long time and is peppered with beautiful churches built between the 16th and 20th centuries by the colonial powers. So are you interested in a pilgrimage to Chennai and looking for ancient churches in particular? Here is a list of churches in Chennai. These churches have their traditional history, and they are peculiar in their ways.

* St. Thomas Church

Built on top of the final resting place of his eponymous apostle, Santhome Basilica (or St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica) is among the best church in Chennai. Further, it is a fantastic piece of religious history architecture and is the biggest church in Chennai. The church was first built in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, became a cathedral in 1606, and was later rebuilt in the 19th century by the British. St Thomas Church Chennai has an all-white façade and is built in neo-gothic style, with large windows and interiors that are naturally lit.

* St. Thomas Mount Church

This church was built in the memory of Thomas, who was an apostle of Jesus Christ. It is believed that at this location, he used to pray and preach, and therefore, the people regard the place as Holy and pure. On the walls of the church, you can witness several paintings related to the legend that reflects and signifies the life and the true legend’s journey. This is among well-known churches in Chennai city.

* Armenian Church, George Town

One of India’s oldest churches, this church was founded in 1712. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, this is another important place for the devotees, believing that the wishes in the Armenian Church can be fulfilled here. Because of this magical reason, many people visit the Godly destination in search of God’s blessing. During festive days like Christmas, the place looks incredible under the glittering decoration.

* Our Lady Of Light Shrine, Luz Road

The locals know it as the Luz Church, which derives from the Portuguese name Nossa Senhora da Luz. Built by the Portuguese in 1516, it is one of the city’s oldest churches, and one of India’s oldest European monuments is its foundation stone marks. The church’s history dated back to the missionaries’ legend of safe arrival to land in the 16th century.

* St. Teresa Church, Nungambakkam

This church is one of the churches that the British built. This church, which was built in 1970 opposite Ispahani Centre, is bang on Nungambakkam High Road. It includes many attractions that are unparalleled with any other available churches in Chennai. During the first Sunday of October, which is considered St. Theresa’s festival, the church witnesses maximum crowd of devotees and like many other churches, Christmas is the time that multiplies the church’s beauty.