San Thome Cathedral, also known as St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica, is a Roman Catholic Minor Basilica in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is one of the three known churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus, namely, St. Thomas. The Cathedral is an important pilgrimage site for Christians in India.
San Thome Cathedral is believed to have been built over the final resting place of St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ. St. Thomas is said to have traveled to India to spread Christianity and died a martyr in the place where the Cathedral stands. The site has been revered by Christians since the 1st century, and the current structure has historical significance dating back to the 16th century.
San Thome Cathedral's architecture reflects a blend of Gothic and Neo-Gothic styles. It features beautiful stained glass windows, tall spires, and a white facade that is quite distinctive within the Chennai cityscape.
Yes, visitors are welcome to attend the mass at San Thome Cathedral. The cathedral has a schedule for daily services, which typically include multiple masses throughout the day, especially on Sundays and Christian holidays. It is advisable to check their official website or contact the cathedral administration for the most up-to-date mass timings.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit San Thome Cathedral. It is open to the public free of charge.
Apart from the main church structure, visitors can explore the San Thome Museum, which contains relics and artifacts related to St. Thomas and the history of the Christian church in India. The cathedral also has a tomb chapel below the sanctuary where visitors can see the tomb of St. Thomas.
Photography is generally allowed inside San Thome Cathedral for personal use. However, it is always advisable to verify with the church authorities as there might be restrictions during mass or special events. Visitors are expected to be respectful and non-disruptive while taking photographs.
The opening hours for San Thome Cathedral may vary, but it is generally open from early morning until late evening. Visitors should verify the current opening hours on the cathedral's official website or by contacting them directly before planning a visit.
Tourists can reach San Thome Cathedral by public transportation, including buses and taxis. Chennai has a well-connected transport system, and the cathedral is accessible by major roads. Those staying in the city center can easily find a ride to the cathedral. Additionally, auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transport in Chennai and can be used to reach the cathedral.
Basic facilities such as restrooms and drinking water are typically available at San Thome Cathedral. Additionally, there may be small shops selling religious articles and souvenirs nearby. Visitors with special needs should contact the cathedral administration to inquire about the availability of specific facilities.
