St. Philomena's Cathedral

St. Philomena's Cathedral in Mysuru, Karnataka, is one of the largest cathedrals in India and a prominent example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Located on Ashoka Road, it was built between 1933 and 1941 under Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV. Inspired by Cologne Cathedral in Germany, it features twin spires 175 feet high, stained glass windows, and a relic of St. Philomena. It serves as the cathedral of the Diocese of Mysore.

Visitors can expect a large Neo-Gothic cathedral with twin 175-foot spires, pointed arches, stained glass windows depicting biblical scenes, and a spacious vaulted interior. Inside are marble altars, statues of St. Philomena and other saints, and a crypt housing a relic of St. Philomena. The exterior grounds include landscaped gardens and open areas for viewing the facade. The setting is central urban Mysuru, accessible for sightseeing, photography from outside, and quiet observation inside.

A church dedicated to St. Philomena existed at the site since 1843. The present cathedral was commissioned by Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV and built between 1933 and 1941. The foundation stone was laid in 1933 by the Maharaja. French architect Daly designed the Neo-Gothic structure. A relic of St. Philomena, a 3rd-century saint, was obtained in 1926 through Peter Pisani, Apostolic Delegate of the East Indies, and is enshrined in the crypt.

The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Mysore and an important centre for the Catholic community in Karnataka. It is noted for its Neo-Gothic heritage architecture and stained glass artistry, and is a major landmark and visitor attraction in Mysuru reflecting the city's diverse religious heritage under the Wadiyars.