Are you aware that despite India being a majority Hindu population There are over 29536 churches? That’s a testament to the size of a secularized nation India actually is. It’s because every religion thrives within this Indian subcontinent. If you’re of the Christian faith, also known as Christianity is the case, then you have visited numerous church services in India. Right? In the hundreds of churches across India there are a few that are considered to be culturally significant and some of the largest within the country. We’ll examine the exact list of the top 10 largest churches in India in 2024. Let’s dive into the list, shall we?
1. St. Francis Church, Kerala
In Fort Kochi, Kerala, St. Francis Church is one of India’s most ancient European churches, which was established in the year 1503 in the year 1503 by Portuguese Franciscan monks. The church’s style is minimalist and entirely European. The white exterior and timber roof makes it one of the most notable characteristics. Inside, there are a variety of historic features, such as Vasco de Gama’s burial site. He was buried here prior to when his remains were taken to Lisbon. More than just a massive structure, St. Francis Church is a living record of the development in Christianity through Indian time, witnessing a variety of shifts in the colonial power.
2. Basilica of Bom Jesus, Goa
In the west of Goa, in Goa in Goa, is in Goa, the Basilica in Bom Jesus, known for its impressive Baroque architecture as well as its status it is it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was built in 1605 and is the final resting spot of Saint. Francis Xavier, who was a key player in the spread of the Christian faith throughout Asia. The church’s interior is adorned with altars as well as carvings. It houses the holy Relics from St. Francis Xavier. Since its construction, the basilica has become one of the top places of worship, with people throughout the world visit to view the relics display of the saint’s relics, which is held every ten years.
3. Velankanni Church, Tamil Nadu
The “Lourdes of the East,” Velankanni Church or the Basilica of Our Lady of Good Health is an emblem of the faith of Tamil Nadu. It was built during the sixteenth century its design incorporates a mix with Gothic as well as Portuguese schools. Many people visit the church, with its white façade and a tranquil secluded area along the sea during the annual festival that runs from August 29 through September 8 when it draws millions to commemorate its cultural and spiritual significance.
4. St. Paul Cathedral, West Bengal
The city of Kolkata, St. Paul’s Cathedral is distinctive due to its Indo-Gothic architectural style. The cathedral was founded in 1847 it was the very initial Anglican church in Asia and was a major milestone in the history of architecture with British India. The style is still filled with Gothic spirit of local designs and features stained glass, frescoes and intricate woodwork. The spire, which is over 200 feet tall, forms an integral component of Kolkata skyline, and remains the main site of worship as well as historical significance.
5. Se Cathedral, Goa
Se Cathedral, also in Goa has been dedicating itself to Catherine of Alexandria and is a commemoration to the Portuguese victory in 1510. Built in 1640, the cathedral is among the biggest church buildings within Asia with respect to size and wide. Its architectural style is one of the Portuguese-Gothic, however in addition it has a Tuscan exterior and Corinthian interior are planned to enhance the aesthetics of Portuguese grandness. The church also houses its own Golden Bell, said to be the most beautiful tone, and the splendor of the towers and its intricate exterior speak to the importance of it not just historically, but also in the sense of religion.
6. Sacred Heart Church, Shimoga
This church isn’t just an architectural wonder, but also a significant landmark in the culture and history of the people living in the area. The church was established by Konkani Catholics, and later 20 families of sepoys around 1830, the church today serves the needs of more than 2400 congregation members. It was founded in the 19th century in the beginning and is constantly evolving along with Shimoga as a town. Shimoga which has grown from a tiny village church, to a stunning cathedral in 1988, when Shimoga was declared a Diocese. Shimoga was created.
7. Medak Cathedral, Telangana
In Telangana The Medak Cathedral towers over its surroundings in a striking Gothic Revival style. While it isn’t as long-standing it was constructed around 1924, by the architect Charles Walker Posnett during a period of severe drought and was the main source of hope for locals. It’s not just a religious place, but it is able to accommodate upto 55,000 people, and is a major tourist attraction which has been made so due to its magnificent stained glass and a huge area of mosaic tiles covering its interiors which were all of which were imported from Britain.
8. Vallarpadam Church, Kerala
Off the coast of southwestern India situated on a small island in Kochi, Kerala, the Vallarpadam Church is affectionately known as the “Lourdes of Kerala.” In the 16th century the church was built by the Portuguese on a tiny island just off the Kochi coast. Since the time, it has been destroyed several times because of natural catastrophes. Following that, the church featured incredible stories of the Virgin Mary associated with the church, which attracted a wide range of people of different faiths.
9. San Thome Basilica, Tamil Nadu
Along the shores to the East of Tamil Nadu, in Chennai is at the San Thome Basilica. This church was constructed over the grave of the apostle saint Thomas and is therefore an area of profound significance to Christians all over the world. It was dedicated in 1896. is a prime masterpiece of Neo-Gothic architecture. It has stunning stained glass windows as well as an impressive exterior. As an official national shrine, it’s not just a place for prayers, but also a place for interreligious dialogue, based on its spiritual and historical significance.
10. House of God of Our Lady of the Rosary, Kunkuri
In the far northeast region of India located situated in Kunkuri, Chhattisgarh, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Rosary is a mighty symbol of faith. It was built in 1962 and finished in 1979, the cathedral is known by its stunning architecture and huge capacity for seating and is one of the largest in India. It functions as a spiritual centre to the area’s Catholic community. Many are drawn to it due to the serene atmosphere and the significance of the region’s culture.
Conclusion
This is all we have for the moment. It’s our intention to present you with the 10 largest churches, however this list continues on, because there are two thousand and three hundred churches across India. That’s why we entrust this task to you, so get out and explore the area and see the ways in which Christian faith is flourishing in India.
