Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica in Cochin (Ernakulam) – A church with its historic significance

Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is one of the most popular eight Basilicas in the country and one of the oldest churches in India. It is the first in Kerala, which is built originally by the Portuguese Viceroy Francesco de Almeida. Santa Cruz was promoted from cathedral to a Basilica by the Pope John Paul II in 1984 due to its antiquity, true work of art and historical importance. Tourists are attracted to this place all round the year. It is located in the main street of Fort Kochi.

This Church is a place of devotion with historic significance, with architectural and artistic dignity. The church interior is of Indo-European and gothic style. The columns are decorated with frescoes and murals, the seven large canvas paintings on the passion and death on the Cross. The pulpit and the wooden paneling are the impressive ones. The famous painting of Leonardo da Vinci added magnificence and the beautiful stained glass windows added glory to this church.

How to reach

Amazing church with beautiful ceiling work. It is a serene place where you could sit and relax for some time with a peace of mind and kind heart. Cochin airport, 3kms away, is the nearest one if reaching by air and if you want to reach by rail, then Aluva railway station junction is just 21 kms away. Even local cabs are also available by roadways.