Introduction

The National Shrine of St. Thomas Basilica or San Thom Cathedral, as it is more popularly known as, is one of the only three churches in the world to be built on the tomb of one of Jesus Christ’s 12 apostles. A major pilgrimage point and tourist attraction, this church stands upon the tomb of St. Thomas, the apostle who introduced Christianity in India.

St. Thomas arrived in India in 52 A.D and went on to preach and spread Christianity in present-day Kerala. After a period of time, he came to present-day Chennai and lived in a cave in what is today known as Little Mount or Chinnamalai. In 72 A.D, he was pierced to death with a lance in St. Thomas Mount and his followers buried him in Mylapore along with the lance used to kill him and some earth soaked in the blood from his wound. Although, a major part of his remains were shifted to Ortona, Italy, the tomb at Chennai still retains its significance as it contains some of his bones along with the lance and earth. The earth covering the tomb is believed to have miraculous healing powers.

The exact origin of the church is mysterious, with popular belief according it to St. Thomas himself. As per historical records, it was rebuilt by Portuguese voyagers in 1504 and the British reconstructed it as a cathedral in neo-gothic style in 1893. In 1956, Pope Pius XII elevated the cathedral’s status to a minor basilica in view of its significance. The tomb continues to be present within the cathedral in the basement and has a chapel attached to it. In 2004 the cathedral was majorly renovated to include a new passageway from the church’s exterior to the tomb.

Nestled along the seashore overlooking the Bay of Bengal, this striking structure continues to beckon believers from all walks of life. The central hall is lined with 14 wooden plaques, each of which has a portrait of the last days of Jesus Christ. There is a museum within the church complex, where various antiques and memorabilia of St. Thomas are on display.

Special Attributes

One of the three churches built on the tomb of Jesus Christ's apostles

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Cars, Buses, Auto-rickshaws, Metro trains

Enjoyed by

History, architecture lovers

Exposure

You will be indoors

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

The museum is closed on Sundays, and for the rest of the week, it is open from 0600 to 1800 hours.

Type of site

Place of worship/church