Santhome Cathedral Basilica: A Testament to Faith and History

The Santhome Cathedral Basilica, located in the Mylapore neighborhood of Chennai, is a profound testament to the enduring legacy of St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have arrived in India in AD 52 and was martyred here in AD 72. The basilica stands as one of only three churches in the world built atop the tomb of an apostle, the others being St. Peter's Basilica in Rome and Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain. The current structure, a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, was constructed in 1896 by the British, replacing earlier Portuguese and smaller chapels that marked this sacred site. The white facade and towering spire, reaching 183 feet, create a striking presence. Inside, visitors are greeted by stained glass windows depicting the life of St. Thomas, wooden plaques illustrating the final days of Christ, and a serene atmosphere enhanced by the soaring ceilings and naturally lit interiors. The basilica's history is rich and layered. The Portuguese, arriving in the 16th century, built a church over the tomb, which was later elevated to a cathedral in 1606. The British reconstructed it in the late 19th century, giving it the Neo-Gothic style that defines it today. In 1956, Pope Pius XII raised the church to the status of a Minor Basilica, and in 2006, it was declared a National Shrine of India. Visitors can explore the attached museum, which houses historical artifacts related to St. Thomas and the church, including an ancient cross dating back to the 7th or 8th centuries. The tomb of St. Thomas lies beneath the main altar, accessible to pilgrims and history enthusiasts alike. Mass services are held daily in English and Tamil, offering a spiritual experience for devotees. The annual feast of St. Thomas, celebrated from June 29 to July 8, draws large crowds for novenas, masses, and a car procession.