Thomas Church Palayoor

Established somewhere back in the 52 AD by the Apostolate of St. Thomas, the church is also known as St. Thomas Church. The Thomas Church Palayoor - Guruvayur is considered one of the oldest churches present in India.

As per reports, it is a part of the oldest seven churches which were established in India during that time. However, at present, the original small Church structure of this church had been retained from somewhere else. Back in the 17th century, the church was modified and beautified by the Reverend Fenichi.

Once the construction of the church was completed, its appearance was elevated considerably after which it has now a spectacle to behold. A treat to eyes, the beauty of the church has one of the most beautiful architecture. It has several elements taken from the Hindu culture paired up with extravagant Persian ornamental decorations, beautifying the church in its way.

Things to Do :

There are several spectacular places where you can pay a visit around the Thomas Church Palayoor–Guruvayur. It includes activities like enjoying on the Boat Jetty atBottukulam, Thaliyakulam. You can also stroll around the historical museum and see the various objects of archaeological, historical and artistic value that are displayed in its way.

History

The famous St. Thomas Church was established at Palayur in 52 AD by a famous St. Thomas. Itis one of the oldest church in India which is one of the seven churches which was founded by St. Thomas, the Apostle. The original small church structure was retained here from the oldest site. During the 17th century, a series of substantial improvements were carried out here. However, the main sanctitude was not relinquished.

However, once the church was fully completed and the priest had delivered the first proper sermon, the local people took up the decision to demolish the old wooden structure. This made the church to look more elegant and grandeur of the site. The original altar which was consecrated by St. Thomas, has been retained.

According to the records of Historical legend of when St. Thomas had landed at Palayur, it says that he first witnessed the sight of Hindu Brahmins at the Thaliyakulam adjacent to then atPalayur temple who were offering prayers by the chanting mantras to god in the form of Tharpanamor the Sun god.

He was so amused by the sight of water that was being thrown up by the Brahmins that he challenged them saying that the Sun god was not accepting the water they were offering. It was because it was falling back into the tank. He then made a deal with them and stated that his God would accept the offer of water if he threw it up in the same way as they did, but rain would not fall back.

The Brahmins accepted the challenge that if he proved this that his God was superior and the Brahmins would have to embrace Christianity. He performed this miracle, and with this miracle, he converted several Brahmins and Jews in Palayur to Christianity.

Timings :

You can easily visit the St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church throughout the year. However, the best time to visit this ancient Church will be during festivals like PalayurMahatheerthadanam.

How to Reach:

St. Thomas Syro-Malabar Catholic Church is located in Palayoor, Kerala. Special thanks to the Kerala Tourism which has arrangements for regular buses which frequently run between Palayoor and all the major towns of Kerala. You can also take a cab,auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach the Church.

Nearby Attractions:

There are several places where you can pay a visit too if you visit the Palayur Church.

• Guruvayyur temple

• Elephant Camps

• Guruvayurappam Temple

• Mammiyur Mahadevan Temple

• Institute of Mural Painting

• Parthasarthy Temple

• Dewaswom Museum

• Chamundeshwari Temple

• Harikanyaka Temple

• Thiruvambadi Krishna Shrine

• Nava Mukunda Temple

• Venkitachalapathy Temple