Introduction

The is the oldest church built by the Europeans in India, the St Francis Church was constructed by the Portuguese in 1503. Vasco da Gama, the Portuguese trader who came to India looking for spices and Christians, was buried here upon his death in 1524. His remains were later taken to Lisbon, Portugal. However, the original tombstone still remains, and draws many history buffs

The church was originally constructed in wood, but this was replaced by a stone structure in 1546. Under the Portuguese, it was a Catholic church, however, when the Dutch took charge of Kochi, it was converted to a Dutch Protestant church. With the signing of the Anglo-Dutch treaty, the church came into the hands of the British, like the rest of the port town. And the British promptly made it into an Anglican church.

In its present avatar, service is presided over by the Church of South India. And much like Hindu temples and Islamic mosques, one is required to remove his/her footwear before entering.

Walk around this historic church and take in the atmosphere. History and culture buffs will find the ‘Doop Book’ or the old baptism and marriage register from 1751 to 1804 very interesting. A photocopied version is there for visitors to glance through.

Special Attributes

The oldest church built by Europeans in India

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

None, but being a religious site dress conservatively

Connectivity

Bus, Auto rickshaw, Taxi

Enjoyed by

Culture and history, buffs apart from the religiously inclined

Exposure

No

Avoidable Season

April, May

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

Keep cell phones on silent mode

Type of site

Church