Malayattoor Church
Kochi, India
- Attend Holy Mass.
- Enjoy panoramic views.
- Explore the miraculous spring.
- Participate in the Malayattoor Perunnal (festival).
- Trek up Malayattoor Hill.
- Visit the footprint of St. Thomas.
Known for:
Description:
Malayattoor Church, officially known as St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, is a prominent pilgrimage center located near Kochi, India. Perched atop the Malayattoor Hill, it's dedicated to St. Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have prayed here. The church offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Pilgrims trek up the hill, following the Stations of the Cross, a physically and spiritually rewarding experience. The church itself is a beautiful structure, and the overall atmosphere is serene and deeply spiritual. The annual Malayattoor Perunnal (festival) attracts devotees from all over the world. It's a significant religious site and a place of natural beauty, making it a worthwhile visit for both pilgrims and tourists seeking tranquility.
History:
According to tradition, St. Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, landed in Kerala in AD 52 to preach the Gospel. It is believed that he established seven churches in Kerala. While traveling through the region, he is said to have climbed the Malayattoor Hill and prayed. During his prayer, he touched a rock, and a miraculous spring sprung forth. Pilgrims still visit this spring, believing it has healing properties. The present church was built in the 20th century, replacing an older structure. The footprint of St. Thomas is preserved on a rock, and a golden statue of St. Thomas adorns the main altar, solidifying the church's historical and religious significance.