St. Mary's Orthodox Church Cheriapally

St. Mary's Orthodox Church Cheriapally, commonly called Kottayam Cheriapally, is a historic Malankara Orthodox Syrian church in central Kottayam, Kerala. Built in 1579 with the permission of the Thekkumkur Raja, it is notable for its blend of Kerala and Portuguese architectural styles, rare wall murals in Persian-Kerala style, intricate wood carvings and its status as a major pilgrimage and heritage centre of the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church.

Visitors can expect a historic church complex in central Kottayam with a whitewashed exterior, tiled roofs, and a spacious courtyard. Inside, the nave and sanctuary feature a decorated altar, wooden carvings, and rare mural paintings depicting biblical and Christian themes in a distinctive Kerala-Persian style. The surroundings are quiet and devotional, with areas for prayer and viewing heritage architecture. Visitors can explore the main hall, exterior grounds and observe traditional church architecture and artwork.

Constructed in 1579 after permission granted by the ruler of Thekkumkur, the church was built by Portuguese-influenced artisans and local craftsmen. It is among the earliest surviving churches in the Kottayam region and represents the historic presence of Saint Thomas Christians in Kerala. The structure retains traditional Kerala temple-style architectural elements combined with colonial-era features and preserves 16th-17th century murals.

The church is a prominent place of worship for the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and is dedicated to St. Mary. It is renowned for its mural paintings, annual feast celebrations in honour of St. Mary, and its role as a heritage and pilgrimage centre reflecting Kerala Christian traditions, art and community history.