Introduction

Eglise de Notre Dame des Anges or the Church of Our Lady of Angels in Rue Dumas is a beautiful Greco-Roman structure modeled on the Basilica at Lourdes in Southern France. The façade of the church is noted for its masonry which is a combination of the finest limestone blended with egg white, creating a texture identical to that of white marble. It gets a lot of visitors, some of whom come to view the much acclaimed oil painting of Our Lady of the Assumption, a gift from the French emperor, Napoleon III.

The church is also referred to in Tamil as Kaps Kovil – the Church of the Capuchins, named after the Capuchin monks who built it. Though, the present church dating back to 1855 is not the first to stand on this site. The earlier church was burnt down by British troops in 1761. The stark white interior of the church, as a result of the blend of limestone with egg white, lends it an air of austerity. The nave is a huge space embellished with incised plaster work in white. While browsing the church from the front door to the altar, you will see a set of 14 pictures symbolizing the Stations of the Cross, though labeled only in French. On the altar is a massive crucifix made of dark wood. With bare white walls, domed ceiling, wooden crucifix and framed reliefs, Notre Dame des Anges will have a sobering effect on you.

Mass takes place at 0515 and 0615 hours from Monday to Saturday. And on Sundays, mass and benediction are performed at 1700 hours.

Special Attributes

The church is a beautiful Greco-Roman structure modeled on the Basilica at Lourdes in Southern France.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

You can take an auto-rickshaw to the church in Rue Dumas.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers, Senior Citizens

Exposure

You will be indoors.

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

Catholic church