Luz Church

Luz Church, officially the Shrine of Our Lady of Light, is a historic Roman Catholic church located in the Luz area of Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Built in 1516 by Portuguese Franciscan missionaries, it is one of the oldest European monuments in India and the oldest church in Chennai. Notable for its Portuguese Baroque architecture, legend of guiding light for sailors, and continuous use for over 500 years, it remains an active parish and heritage landmark.

Visitors can expect a historic Portuguese-era church set on Luz Church Road in Mylapore, with a simple Baroque facade, twin towers, arched interiors, altar dedicated to Our Lady of Light, and quiet prayer halls. The compound includes the main church building, grotto and open courtyard. The surroundings are a busy residential and commercial neighbourhood. Visitors can explore the interior, attend Mass, view historic plaques and architecture, and experience an active parish atmosphere.

Built in 1516 by Portuguese Franciscan missionaries led by Pedro da Atouguia, Luz Church is the oldest church in Chennai and one of the oldest European monuments in India. According to tradition, Franciscan friars lost at sea were guided to shore by a miraculous light and built the church in thanksgiving to Our Lady of Light. The original structure was rebuilt in 1598 and has survived damage and restoration over centuries, representing early Portuguese presence on the Coromandel Coast.

An important Roman Catholic shrine under the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore, dedicated to Our Lady of Light. It is an active parish centre for the local Anglo-Indian and Tamil Catholic community. The annual feast of Our Lady of Light on August 15 is a major religious observance with special Masses and processions, reflecting the living religious and cultural heritage of Mylapore.