About Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
The Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica is a historic Roman Catholic church located in Fort Kochi, Kerala. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1505, it was elevated to a cathedral in 1558 and declared a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984. The current Gothic-style structure, completed in 1905, features Indo-European architectural elements, stained glass windows, and interior paintings by Italian artist Antonio Moscheni.
Visitors guide
Visitors can explore a grand Gothic-style cathedral with a whitewashed exterior and twin spires. The interior features pastel-colored walls, intricate frescoes, seven large canvas paintings including a reproduction of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, and stained glass windows. The site includes a preserved granite pillar from the original 1505 church. Tourists are welcome during specified hours outside of liturgical services.
Key highlights
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Gothic and Indo-European architecture
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Interior paintings by Italian artist Antonio Moscheni
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Reproduction of Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper
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Stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes
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Preserved granite pillar from the original 1505 church
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One of eight basilicas in India
History of Santa Cruz Cathedral Basilica
Originally built by the Portuguese in 1505 after securing permission from the King of Cochin. Elevated to a cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. The original structure was demolished by the British in 1806. The present structure was commissioned in 1887 by Bishop João Gomes Ferreira and consecrated in 1905. It was proclaimed a basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.
Culture & Context
Serves as the cathedral church of the Diocese of Cochin, the second oldest diocese in India. It is one of thirty-four basilicas in India and nine in Kerala. The basilica represents a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and Indo-European cultural and architectural influences.
Route
| By air |
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