Visit St. Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal

Visit St. Andrew's Basilica, Arthunkal, Mararikulam Overview

St. Andrew's Basilica in Arthunkal is a renowned Christian pilgrimage site with a rich cultural heritage.

Situated in Mararikulam, a beautiful coastal village in Kerala, India, this notable tourist attraction has been around for centuries, attracting visitors from all over the world and inspiring them with its historical stories and anecdotal accounts.The Basilica, locally known as ‘Arthungal Palli’, stands as a tribute to St. Andrew, one of the apostles of Jesus Christ. In the early 16th century, the Dutch and Portuguese traders had a huge role to play in the establishment of this monument, setting up an ecclesiastical community around this site. According to legend, St. Andrew himself had arrived in the region with four other apostles and the site was chosen for its strategic position, overlooking the Arabian Sea. The church was built in either 1582 or 1591, and now stands as an imposing stone structure, established by the Portuguese.The interior of St. Andrew's Basilica is just as evocative as the exterior. With a unique neo-Gothic design, the 15 alters within the church exude an enigmatic and spiritual atmosphere, made even more special by the fossils and fragments of ancient pottery which are still to be found here - reminders of the ancient civilizations which once inhabited this site.Visitors to St. Andrew's Basilica are treated to many interesting attractions. Those who want to get a deeper understanding about the church’s history can visit the nearby museum. The museum houses invaluable artifacts related to the stories and legends of Christianity, such as copies of the bible and ancient relics. Arthunkal beach is another popular destination nearby, with its serene blue waters and gentle thrashing waves.For those looking to add a spiritual touch to their trip to Arthunkal, a daily mass is conducted around the basilica in both English and Malayalam languages. Pilgrims visiting St Andrew’s Basilica can feel their faith deepen after they join in prayer and song.A must-visit for all religious travelers, St. Andrew's Basilica in Arthunkal is an all-in-one destination for a fulfilling and spiritually uplifting experience. Here, visitors can unravel the mysteries of history, feel the depth of faith and soak in the breathtaking natural surroundings of the sun-kissed beaches.