St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church — Attraction in Kerala

This Historic Church where Coonan Cross Oath took place is located in Lobo.Jn, Mattancherry, Kochi. Church was destroyed by Portughese after Coonan Cross Oath and was rebulit in AD 1751 with aid of King Mathanda Varma Of Travancore. Recently Church was renovated and all details of renoovation is avilable in public domain. Holy Relics of St George was installed Altar in AD 1751 by Mar Shakralla Mafriana . Mattancherry St. George Orthodox Church- Koonankurishu Pally . The Koonankurishu Pally is a revered pilgrim centre. It has paramount position among other Orthodox churches as it is home to the holy remains of St.George. It was built on the land where the historical Koonankurishu Oath took place. The land has become sacred with the foot prints of the Persian Prelates, first Catholicos Mar Thoma 1 and our other forefathers of the Malankara Orthodox faith. The St. George Church of Mattanchery, one of the oldest churches in India has played a significant role in the historic event ( Coonan Cross Oath ) that shaped the leadership of the Malankara Church, as it is today. The history of Mattanchery Church is also closely connected with Mar Baselios Sacrella Maphriyono, the Bishop of Aleppo Town in Bravua. Mar Gregorios Yuhanon who came to India along with Baselios Sacralla Maphriyono ordained Kattumangattu Abraham Ramban (Monk) as Bishop Mar Kurilose in AD 1772 in this church. However, Mar Kurilose was not accepted both in Travancore or Cochin. He then moved to Malabar and established a church called the Malabar Independent Syrian Church (Malabar Swathantra Syrian Church) also known as Thozhiyoor Church. Subsequently there was a dispute over the possession of the Mattanchery Church and the Dutch governor who heard the case finally gave the verdict in favor of Veliya Mar Dionysius, then the Malankara Metropolitan (Mar Thoma VI). In later years Fort Cochin and Mattanchery Churches were amalgamated to form one Parish. This church remained closed for 20 years following disputes but finally opened its doors again in 1997. The church is also known as “Mattancherry Muri” or “Erimeghapally” and is presently under the direct control of the Malankara...

The St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church in Kerala is a captivating testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region. As a visitor to this ancient church, I was deeply moved by its historical significance and the sense of spirituality that permeates its surroundings.

The architecture of the St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church is a blend of traditional Kerala style and distinct Syrian influences. The intricately carved wooden panels, vibrant murals, and ornate altar create an atmosphere of reverence and awe. It is a place where history comes alive, and one can feel the weight of centuries of worship and devotion.

The church holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, and their warm welcome and genuine hospitality made my visit even more memorable. The caretakers of the church graciously shared stories about its origins and significance, providing valuable insights into its historical and cultural importance.

Attending a service at the St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church was a truly spiritual experience. The serene chants, the fragrant incense, and the sense of unity among the worshippers created a profound atmosphere of devotion and introspection.

The church's peaceful surroundings, with lush greenery and a serene ambiance, add to the overall sense of tranquility. It's a place where one can escape the hustle and bustle of daily life and find solace in the embrace of faith and history.

In conclusion, the St. George Orthodox Koonan Kurish Old Syrian Church is a jewel in Kerala's religious landscape. Its rich history, breathtaking architecture, and spiritual significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in immersing themselves in the cultural tapestry of the region. Whether you're seeking a spiritual experience or simply want to appreciate the beauty of ancient architecture, this remarkable church is sure to leave a...

St George Orthodox Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church, popularly known as 'Koonan Kurishu Pazhaya Suriyani Palli', is situated in Mattancherry, Kochi, Ernakulam district, Kerala.. It is a prominent St George church that belongs to the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. As the name of church implies, the church has mainly two unique specialties: historic koonan kurishu sathyam took place at this church in AD 1653 and during its reconsecration in AD 1751, Church was constructed and dedicated to St George (Geevarghese Sahada) with the installation of holy relics of St George in its altar.

Koonan Kurishu Church is also known as "Mattancherry Muri" or "Erimeghapally" or "Mattancherry Church", and is the oldest St George Church in Kochi. Considering the historic importance of the Koonan Kurish Palli, Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church declared it as a historic monument as well as a pilgrim center.

Mattancherry and Fort Cochin are two cities in Kochi, Kerala. The Portuguese followed by the Dutch and later on the British ruled the cities and used them as their first trade hub till independence of the country. .

Portuguese army had destroyed the St Thomas Church and its Leaned Cross (Koonan Kurishu) immediately after the Coonan Cross Oath of AD 1653. The destroyed St Thomas Church  was reconsecrated in 1751 by Mar Baselious Shakkrallah Maphriana, and renovated later in 1974 under the initiative of Cochin Diocese.. In 2016 church was renovated using Nubian architecture with eco friendly construction process using compressed soil bricks with no steel and very less cement. Koonan Kurishu is reinstalled at Mattancherry Koonan Kurishu Old Syrian Church along with the renovation. Importance is given to natural lighting and air circulation. Considering the historic importance of the Koonan Kurish Palli,  Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church declared it as a historic monument as well as a...