Chennai, Tamil Nadu
San Thome Basilica, officially known as the National Shrine of St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, is a significant Roman Catholic church located in the Santhome neighborhood of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. Built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, it stands as one of the only three churches worldwide constructed over the tomb of an apostle, alongside St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City and Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain. The basilica serves as the principal church of the Archdiocese of Madras-Mylapore and is a vital center for Christian worship and pilgrimage, especially during the feast of St. Thomas celebrated annually on July 3rd.
According to tradition, St. Thomas arrived in India in 52 AD, preaching Christianity along the Malabar Coast and eventually reaching Mylapore (now part of Chennai). He is believed to have been martyred in 72 AD at St. Thomas Mount, with his remains interred at the site where the basilica now stands. The original church was constructed by Portuguese explorers in 1523 over his tomb. In 1956, Pope Pius XII elevated it to the status of a Minor Basilica, and it was declared a National Shrine in 2006 by the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India. The basilica continues to be a significant pilgrimage site for Christians from around the world, particularly during the annual feast of St. Thomas on July 3rd, when thousands of devotees gather to pay homage to the apostle.
Neo-Gothic Architecture: The basilica showcases Neo-Gothic architectural style, rebuilt by the British in 1896, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and towering spires
Main Spire: The main spire reaches a height of 47.2 meters (155 feet), making it a prominent landmark in Chennai's skyline
Crypt Chapel: A crypt chapel directly above the tomb of St. Thomas, offering a serene space for prayer and reflection
Tomb of St. Thomas: The basilica is built over the tomb of St. Thomas the Apostle, making it one of only three such churches in the world
Museum: The church houses a museum displaying relics and artifacts related to St. Thomas and the history of Christianity in India
Stained Glass Windows: Beautiful stained glass windows typical of Neo-Gothic architecture
Interior Design: Elaborate interior design with Neo-Gothic elements including pointed arches and ribbed vaults
Visiting Hours: The basilica is open to visitors daily
Mass Services: Mass services are conducted in multiple languages, including Tamil and English
Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended; respectful attire is expected when visiting the church
Photography: Photography is generally permitted, but visitors should be respectful during prayer times and mass services
Feast Day: The annual feast of St. Thomas is celebrated on July 3rd, when the basilica experiences high footfall
Prayer and Reflection: Visitors can use the crypt chapel for prayer and reflection
Museum Visit: The museum is open for visitors to explore relics and artifacts related to St. Thomas
Location: Santhome neighborhood, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Nearest Airport: Chennai International Airport, Chennai – approx. 16 km
Major Railway Stations:
Chennai Central Railway Station – approx. 6 km
Chennai Egmore Railway Station – approx. 4 km
Metro Station: Nearest metro stations accessible via connecting transport
The basilica is strategically located in the Santhome neighborhood, making it easily accessible from various parts of Chennai and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
San Thome Basilica is well connected by road and public transport. The basilica is located in the Santhome neighborhood, which provides excellent connectivity to Chennai city center and surrounding areas. Public bus services operated by the Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) provide regular connectivity to the area. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly, offering convenient access for visitors. The basilica is easily accessible from major railway stations and the international airport, making it convenient for both local devotees and tourists. The church's serene ambiance, combined with its historical and architectural significance, makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring Chennai's rich cultural heritage. The basilica serves as a significant pilgrimage site and continues to be a vital center for Christian worship in South India.