About Medak Cathedral
Medak Cathedral is one of the largest churches in India and the second-largest church in Asia. Built by Reverend Charles Walker Posnett of the British Wesleyan Methodists between 1914 and 1924, it was consecrated on December 25, 1924. The cathedral serves as the seat of the Bishop for the Diocese of Medak of the Church of South India. Constructed in Gothic Revival style with impressive stained glass windows depicting scenes from Christ's life, the cathedral can accommodate approximately 5,000 people at a time.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a magnificent Gothic Revival structure spread across more than 300 acres. The cathedral features massive grey stone pillars, sound-proof vaulted roofing, and celebrated stained glass windows designed by Sir O. Salisbury depicting the Ascension, Nativity, and Crucifixion. The interior showcases mosaic tiles imported from Britain in six different colors, laid by Italian masons. Visitors can view the architecture, admire the craftsmanship, and experience a serene atmosphere for silent prayer and contemplation.
Key highlights
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One of the largest churches in India and second-largest in Asia
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Gothic Revival architecture with 175-foot bell tower
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Stained glass windows depicting scenes from Christ's life
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Mosaic tiles imported from Britain in six colors
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Capacity to accommodate 5,000 people
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Built during famine period (1914-1924) providing employment to locals
History of Medak Cathedral
The cathedral was built by Reverend Charles Walker Posnett of the British Wesleyan Methodists between 1914 and 1924. Construction began during a severe famine in the Medak district, and Rev. Posnett provided employment to suffering masses through the construction work instead of running a free kitchen. The cathedral was consecrated on December 25, 1924. In October 1947, when several Christian groups united as the Church of South India, the church became the cathedral church of the Diocese of Medak.
Culture & Context
Medak Cathedral is the seat of the Bishop in Medak for the Church of South India, comprising Wesleyan Methodist, Congregational, and Anglican missionary societies. It represents the largest diocese in Asia and the second-largest in the world after the Vatican. The cathedral attracts over three million tourists annually and stands as a symbol of inter-denominational Christian unity in India.