St. Philomena's Cathedral — Attraction in Karnataka

St. Philomena’s Cathedral, Mysore

Location: Lourdes Nagar, Ashoka Road, Lashkar Mohalla, Mysuru, Karnataka, India. Full Name: Cathedral of St. Joseph and St. Philomena, also known as St. Joseph’s Cathedral. History: Originally built in 1843 by Maharaja Mummadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar III as a small church for European residents. The current structure was constructed in 1936 under Maharaja Krishnarajendra Wadiyar IV, with the foundation laid on October 28, 1933. Built to honor St. Philomena, a 4th-century Greek princess and Latin Catholic saint martyred at age 14. Her relics were discovered in 1802 in Rome’s Catacombs of Saint Priscilla. In 1926, a relic of St. Philomena was obtained by T. Thumboo Chetty from Peter Pisani and handed to Father Cochet, leading to the construction of the new church. Architecture: Designed by French architect Daly in Neo-Gothic style, inspired by Germany’s Cologne Cathedral. Features twin spires, each 175 feet tall, resembling those of St. Patrick’s Church in New York. The floor plan resembles a cross, with the nave (congregation hall) seating up to 800, transepts as the cross’s arms, and the altar and choir at the crossing. Stained glass windows depict scenes from Christ’s life: birth, Last Supper, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. A catacomb below the main altar houses St. Philomena’s relic and a statue from France. Significance: One of Asia’s tallest and second-largest churches, it’s a major tourist attraction and a symbol of Mysore’s secular heritage. The church blends local culture, with some statues dressed in traditional sarees. Timings and Access: Open daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM; evening visits are recommended for the illuminated view. Holy Masses are held daily in English, Kannada, and Tamil; special masses on Sundays and festivals. Annual feast celebrated on August 11. Photography is prohibited inside the church hall. Located 2 km from Mysore Palace and 3 km from the city bus stand, accessible by taxi or auto-rickshaw. Additional Features: Runs an orphanage on its premises. Known for its serene atmosphere, intricate stonework, and cultural events, including scenes featured in the 1977 Bollywood film Amar Akbar Anthony.

This majestic cathedral is a blend of history, spirituality, and architectural grandeur, attracting devotees and...

St. Philomena’s Cathedral in Mysore—officially the Cathedral of St. Joseph and St. Philomena—is a remarkable neo‑Gothic structure and one of the tallest churches in Asia, with twin spires rising to about 175 ft. 

🏛️ Architecture & History

• Conceived during the 1930s under Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV, the cathedral followed a smaller 1843 church on the same site. Construction began in 1933 and was completed by 1941–42.  • Designed by French architect Daly, its layout forms a Latin cross with a spacious nave, transepts, crossing, and chancel. The design was inspired by Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, with exterior spires echoing Cologne and New York’s St. Patrick’s.  • The main hall seats approximately 800 worshippers and features vibrant stained-glass windows illustrating biblical scenes: the Birth of Christ, Last Supper, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and Ascension. Many windows were crafted in France.  • Beneath the altar lies an underground crypt housing a marble statue of St. Philomena and the saint’s relic, making this cathedral a devotional and architectural landmark. 

ℹ️ Visitor Tips

Opening hours 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily  Entry fee None; free for all visitors  Parking Free parking available on premises; limited space  Photography Not permitted inside the church; exterior photos are fine  Footwear Must be removed before entering the church hall  Best visit times Early morning or evening (especially when it’s lit up); avoid masses for quiet exploration.  Special events Annual feast on 11 August; festive atmosphere, decorations, and community gatherings. 

✅ Overall Verdict

St. Philomena’s Cathedral is widely regarded as one of Mysore’s most iconic landmarks—a blend of architectural grandeur, colonial history, and devotional significance. Whether you’re drawn by spirituality, historical intrigue, or Gothic design, it’s a peaceful sanctuary just 2 km from Mysore Palace and very accessible from the city center. Many reviewers emphasize that while the interior may feel less ornate than some expect, the overall experience—especially the soaring towers, stained glass, and crypt—stands out as...

I recently had the opportunity to visit St. Philomena Church, and I must say that it was a truly remarkable experience. From the moment I laid my eyes on the grandiose structure, I was in awe of its magnificent beauty and rich history.

The architecture of St. Philomena Church is breathtaking. The neo-Gothic style, with its towering spires and intricate detailing, evokes a sense of wonder and reverence. The sheer size of the church is impressive, and as I entered the premises, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me.

The interior of the church is equally awe-inspiring. The stained glass windows, depicting biblical scenes and religious figures, cast a mesmerizing play of light and colors across the space. The high vaulted ceilings and ornate decorations create a sense of grandeur, making it a perfect setting for worship and reflection.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to attend a service, and the atmosphere was truly uplifting. The choir's melodious voices echoed through the halls, creating a serene ambiance that enhanced the spiritual experience. The church's acoustics are exceptional, allowing every word spoken and every note sung to be heard with clarity.

The staff and volunteers at St. Philomena Church were warm, welcoming, and knowledgeable. They were more than willing to answer any questions I had and provide insight into the church's history and significance. Their dedication and passion for preserving the church's heritage were evident, and it added an extra layer of appreciation for the place.

Overall, St. Philomena Church is a remarkable testament to human craftsmanship and devotion. It stands as a beacon of faith and a cultural landmark in the community. Whether you're a devout worshipper, a history enthusiast, or simply seeking a place of solace, St. Philomena Church is a must-visit destination. I highly recommend experiencing the serenity and beauty of this magnificent...