Vallarpadam Church

Kerala has attained great popularity for its magnificent Western Ghats, lush green valleys, stunning churches, and breathtaking backwaters. The state has some of the popular churches that you must never forget to visit. One of the highly popular churches is Vallarpadam Church that will leave you breathless with its appealing beauty. The Vallarpadam Church or the Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom is located in Ernakulam, Kerala. It was built by the Portuguese Missionaries way back in 1524. The most important deity in the church is Holy Mary who is also known as Vallarapadath Amma’ by scores of pilgrims.

The important place of worship has its own history. Its relevance can be assessed by the fact that it is one of the oldest European churches based in India. It sustained some damage as a result of a heavy flood in the year 1676. However, it was soon repaired and reconstructed in the year 1676. 18th century proved to be highly significant for the church as it was announced as the special church by Pope Leo XIII in the year 1888. Soon Union Government signified it as a leading pilgrimage centre.

Among the followers of the church, a strong belief had always persisted that Vallarpadath Amma proved instrumental in saving the life of her devotee on various occasion from violent storms. You will certainly fall in love with the magnificent building of the Vallarpadam church. The church has an eye-catchy image of Mary and Jesus gracing the topmost portion of the main altar. The report claims that the image of Mary and infant Jesus was brought by Portuguese merchants as sought by Vasco Da Gama in the year 1524. Some people claim that when the floods caused massive havoc destroying almost everything, the picture of Mary and the infant Jesus was found to be floating in the backwaters. The painting was named as Blessed Mary of Mercy.

Several miracle stories and news have been doing the roundabout the church. Another story that has also been linked to the church claims that in 1752, a young Nair woman known as Meenakshi was sailing towards Mattancherry along with her one-year-old son. Meenakshi hailed from Pallivil Veedu that was a noble family in Vallarpadam. All of a sudden the strong storm suddenly intensified and the boat capsized. The man in the boat ran to his safety by swimming but could not help the woman and toddler. When she was almost drowned with her infant, she pledged that she along with her son remain slaves of Vallarpadathamma if they are saved. The priest got the dream of a drowning woman and according to dream’s instruction, he sent fishermen for rescuing the woman and her child. Miraculously, the lady known as Meenakshi Amma and her son were rescued after three days. After this episode, both son and mother turned ardent follower of Mother Mary and baptized as Christians.

Traveller Tips: 

There is no entry fee when you visit the church.

History:

The church was given the status of Basilica in the year 2003. The church has now emerged as a major tourist attraction. Local fishermen have great belief in the church. They bring their new boat to the church and seek the blessings of Mother Mary. They sweep the church compound to convey their feelings and dedication towards the church.

Festival: 

The important festival of the church takes place on September 24. It is also known as the feast of Vallarpadathamma. It is celebrated from 16 to 24 September every year with complete gaiety. A large number of pilgrims throng the small island to take part in the festival.

Best Time to Visit: 

The timing of the church is 6:30 am to 6:30 pm. It is ideal to visit the church between 9 am to 5 pm. You need at least 30 minutes time to see the entire church. 4 pm to 5 pm has emerged as the most popular hours to visit the church.

How to Reach: 

You may reach the church popularly known as the Basilica of Our Lady of Ransom by bus. The church is located at Vypin. All you have to do to reach the church is simply hope onto a bus and it will take you there. In case you are arriving from Aluva or Korchi International Airport, it is ideal to take a bus for Ernakulam High Court junction and from there you need to take another bus for Vyapin.

Nearby Attractions: 

After you have seen the church, you can visit Ernkulam Shiva temple or Marine Drive Ground. You can also visit the beautiful Vaikom Temple, Folklore Museum, Vypin Island, Pallipuram Fort etc. They have emerged as the most popular destinations that will leave you in awe of the place.

Therefore, we can conclude here that if you happen to visit Kerala, your visit will remain incomplete if you do not see the Vallarpadam Church, Ernakulam