Introduction

Valiyapally is the second church in Kottayam dedicated to St. Mary, and is older than Cheriyapally, having been built in 1550. Nestled on the top of a hillock with the Meenachil River at its foot, this ancient Syrian Knanaya Church is among the largest and the oldest in town. Valiyapally is located about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) northwest of the centre of Kottayam. This is the mother church of most Christians in this area. The church was built by the descendants of Syrian Knanaya Christians, though the history of Kottayam in the early centuries of the Christian era is largely obscure. Geologists believe that the western part of Kottayam emerged from the Arabian Sea owing to some violent upheaval of nature.

Look-out for its two granite crosses known as Persian crosses that were brought here from a much older church near Kodungalloor (also known as Crangannore) built by the forefathers of the builders of this church. Take a closer look at these 8th century Persian crosses and you will find on each of its stone slabs a cross with an inscription in the Pahalavi language, which was the official language of the Sassanian Dynasty in Persia. This church has been visited by many dignitaries over the years including Lord Irwin, the Viceroy of India and Emperor Haile Sellassie of Ethiopia. H.G. Mor Severios Gheevarghese, the first Metropolitan of Knanaya Diocese is laid to rest in this church.

Kottayam Valiyapally is a Knanaya Orthodox Syrian Community Church built by the migrants from Jerusalem under the leadership of Kana Thoma. While browsing the church you will notice that the cross on the Southern Altar resembles the one at St. Thomas Mount Church in Chennai. Don’t miss out the exotic antique carvings and mural paintings behind the main altar, all the way up to the ceiling of the church. A trip to Valiyapally is recommended for its ancient and rare Persian crosses, giving you a glimpse into the lineage of the Syrian Knanaya Christians who are among the oldest Christians in the world.

Special Attributes

Take a closer look at these 8th century Persian crosses and you will find on each of its stone slabs a cross with an inscription in the Pahalavi language.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can hire an auto-rickshaw to Valiyapally from Kottayam city centre.

Enjoyed by

Families, Senior Citizens, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be indoors. On your way from the city centre to the church during the day, you will be exposed to a harsh sun. So, it is advisable to carry along sunshades and a bottle of drinking water.

Avoidable Season

Open through the year

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

Keep your tone low inside the church, and turn your phone to silent mode.

Type of site

One of the oldest churches in town