St. Thomas Mount National Shrine — Attraction in St.Thomas Mount-Pallavaram Cantonment Board

St. Thomas Mount is a small hillock located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, near Guindy. The mount is known locally as "Peria Malai" (Big Mount—in Tamil language) or "Parangi Malai." Legend maintains that St. Thomas, one of the Twelve apostles of Christ, traveled to India after the crucifixion of Jesus, bringing the gospel to the people of India. St. Thomas Mount is the legendary place where Thomas had been martyred, shot by his assailants with a bow and arrow. He is thought to have clutched a stone cross, bleeding on it during his death. That cross has been called the bleeding cross, as miracles of its bleeding have been reported. The Portuguese built the shrine of Mother Mary, a small relic-filled Church, in 1523 at the summit of the 300 foot high St. Thomas Mount. The bleeding cross has been built into the altar wall. An oil painting of the Madonna, reputed to have been painted by the apostle Luke and brought to India by Thomas, is hung in the shrine. The Little Mount on St. Thomas Mount is reputed to have been the hermitage of St. Thomas, a humble cave in the hillside. Legend states that Thomas had been in the cave when assailed, escaping to the hill where he met his death. Acknowledging the importance of the holy site to the Roman Catholic Church, Pope John Paul II visited the pilgrimage site on February 5, 1986, during his visit to India. According to legend, St. Thomas had been one of the first Christians to reach India and to preach Christianity.[1] He was believed to have reached South India in 52 C.E., spending the last years of his life in a cave on the hill. Tradition states that Thomas had been martyred in 72 C.E., shot by a bow and arrow. Over the centuries, the legend has been passed on, leading to the hill taking the name St. Thomas Mount. Hill shrine Mother Mary had been built in 1523 on top of the mount, a shrine dedicated to "Our Lady of Expectation." The altar stands on the spot believed where legend places St. Thomas martyrdom in 72 C.E. A gateway stands at the northern foot of the Mount with four impressive arches surmounted by a cross bearing the inscribed date 1547. A flight of 160 steps leads up to the summit of the Mount. Fourteen stations of the cross have been erected on the way to the summit.

In 1547, an excavation unearthed a stone cross with old Sassanid Pahlavi inscriptions on it. The cross, reputed to have been chiseled by the Apostle himself, became known as the 'Bleeding Cross' as it has stains resembling blood stains which reappear even after being scrubbed off. The cross allegedly bleeds afresh periodically. It first "bled" publicly during Mass in 1558, the last recorded occasion took place in 1704. Father Guy Tachard, a Roman Catholic priest, witnessed the event, Vicar, Father Gasper Coelho passing on his testimony. St. Thomas supposedly clutched the cross in his dying last moments. When discovered, priests built the cross into the altar of the church along the wall where it has remained since. On either side of the chancel oil paintings depicting the twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ have been framed. Above the altar hangs an oil painting of The Madonna, considered one of the seven painted by St. Luke the Evangelist and brought to India by St. Thomas. That picture of the Madonna has been proclaimed the oldest Christian painting in India.[2] The Catholic (Latin rite) diocese of Chingelpet ministers at the shrine...

A Spiritual and Historic Gem – St. Thomas Mount Church, Chennai

St. Thomas Mount Church, perched atop a serene hillock in Chennai, is one of the most sacred and historic Christian sites in India. This beautiful church is not just a place of worship but a symbol of deep-rooted faith, rich history, and architectural elegance.

The church is built on the very site where St. Thomas the Apostle, one of the twelve disciples of Jesus Christ, is believed to have been martyred in 72 AD. According to Christian tradition, St. Thomas came to India in 52 AD to spread the message of Christianity and spent the latter part of his life in the region of present-day Chennai. He preached, converted locals, and eventually met his end at this very mount, which is now named after him.

The St. Thomas Garrison Church, also known as Our Lady of Expectation, was built in 1523 AD by Portuguese missionaries. This ancient church stands as a solemn reminder of the apostle’s sacrifice and the beginnings of Christianity in India. It is considered a pilgrimage site, especially by the Syrian Christian community in Kerala and Tamil Nadu.

What sets this church apart is its location. The hilltop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the coastline. The scenic beauty combined with the calm and peaceful environment makes it a perfect spot for prayer, reflection, and meditation. The climb up the mount is manageable, and there are steps as well as a motorable road leading to the top.

Inside the church, you'll find a simple yet elegant altar, centuries-old artwork, and inscriptions that speak of the church’s deep historical and spiritual roots. A stone cross, believed to have been carved by St. Thomas himself, is housed here and is venerated by visitors. The church also features relics and paintings that date back several centuries, adding to its heritage value.

The place is well-maintained, and cleanliness is given importance. Devotees and tourists alike are welcomed with warmth. Sunday Masses and special prayers are conducted regularly, drawing a faithful crowd. The feast of St. Thomas, celebrated every year on July 3rd, is a major event with processions and special services.

However, parking can be a bit limited near the top, especially on weekends or feast days, so early arrival...

St. Thomas Mount Church stands as a beacon of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle of Chennai. Its tranquil ambiance, coupled with a rich historical significance, makes it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.The church, perched atop a small hillock, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape below, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and reflection. Whether you're seeking solace in prayer or simply want to admire the stunning architecture, this sacred site caters to all.Steeped in history, St. Thomas Mount holds a special place in the hearts of Christians worldwide as it is believed to be the site where St. Thomas, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ, was martyred. The shrine housing his relics adds a profound spiritual dimension to the visit, inviting visitors to connect with centuries of faith and tradition.The church itself is a testament to architectural brilliance, blending elements of Gothic and Neoclassical styles. The interior is adorned with intricate stained glass windows, majestic altar pieces, and ornate decorations, offering a feast for the eyes and a glimpse into the region's religious heritage.Whether you're a devout pilgrim seeking spiritual solace or a curious traveler eager to explore Chennai's cultural treasures, St. Thomas Mount Church promises an unforgettable experience. Immerse yourself in its peaceful ambiance, soak in its historical significance, and let your soul find refuge in its...