Basilica of Our lady of the Mount (Mount St Mary Church)

Basilica of Our lady of the Mount (Mount St Mary Church)

Mumbai, India

Rating: 8/10
Best time to visit: All-Day days
Recommended time to spend: 2 hr
Activities to do:
  • Admire the architecture
  • Attend mass
  • Enjoy the scenic view
  • Light a candle
  • Visit during Bandra Fair
Known for:
architecturehistoryphotographypilgrimage
Description:

Mount Mary Church, officially known as the Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount, is a Roman Catholic Basilica located in Bandra, Mumbai. It stands atop a hillock overlooking the Arabian Sea, offering stunning panoramic views. The church is a popular pilgrimage site, especially during the Bandra Fair held in September. Known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, the church attracts both devotees and tourists. Inside, the statue of Mother Mary holding baby Jesus is the main attraction, believed to perform miracles. The church's peaceful ambiance provides a respite from the bustling city life.

History:

The history of Mount Mary Church dates back to the 16th century when Jesuit priests brought a statue of Mother Mary to the current location. The original church was destroyed in 1738 and rebuilt in 1760. The current structure, with its neo-Gothic style, was built in 1904. The statue of Our Lady, also known as 'Our Lady of the Mount,' is believed to have been brought from Portugal in the 16th century. Over the centuries, the church has become an important religious and cultural landmark in Mumbai, attracting pilgrims from various faiths.