About Marthoma Pontifical Shrine
The Marthoma Pontifical Shrine in Azhikode is a major Christian pilgrimage center located on the banks of the Periyar River, approximately 6 kilometers from Kodungallur. Built in the model of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome, it commemorates the landing of St. Thomas the Apostle in India in 52 AD. The shrine houses a holy relic, the bone of St. Thomas's right arm, brought from Ortona, Italy in 1953. It is recognized as the first of seven churches established by St. Thomas in Kerala and forms part of the Muziris Heritage Project.
Visitors guide
Visitors can venerate the holy relic of St. Thomas exposed daily in a glass case behind the altar. The shrine features an audio-visual presentation called Marthoma Smruthi Tharangam depicting the life and mission of St. Thomas. Visitors can explore the church built in Roman basilica style, visit the research center with information about Indian Christianity, purchase religious books, and enjoy boat rides on the Periyar River. The shrine is situated near Azhikode jetty and fishing harbor with riverside views.
Key highlights
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Holy relic of St. Thomas's right arm brought from Ortona, Italy in 1953
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First of seven churches founded by St. Thomas in Kerala in 52 AD
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Audio-visual presentation Marthoma Smruthi Tharangam about St. Thomas
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Church built in the model of St. Peter's Basilica, Rome
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Located on the banks of Periyar River near Azhikode jetty
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Part of the Muziris Heritage Project
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Research center with information on Indian Christianity
History of Marthoma Pontifical Shrine
St. Thomas the Apostle landed at Kodungallur (then known as Muziris) on November 21, 52 AD and established the first Christian community in Kerala. This shrine marks the site of the first of seven churches founded by St. Thomas. In 1953, Cardinal Eugene Tisserant brought the bone of St. Thomas's right arm from Ortona, Italy and enthroned it at the shrine on December 6, 1953. The main feast is celebrated on November 21 commemorating the Apostle's entrance to India.
Culture & Context
The shrine is considered the Cradle of Christianity in India and is a sacred pilgrimage site for Christians worldwide. It attracts visitors irrespective of caste, creed, or religion. The shrine is managed by the CMI fathers of Devamatha Province and holds special significance for the Syro-Malabar Christian community. The annual Novena prayer services and week-long feast celebration draw thousands of pilgrims.