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San Thome Church, Chennai

4.5
#2 of 131 in Historic Sites in Chennai
Church · Architectural Building
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Visit an important place of Christian pilgrimage in India at San Thome Church. Built by the Portuguese over the tomb of St. Thomas, an apostle who preached in India between 52 and 72 CE, the basilica was reconstructed in its current form by the British in 1893. Bearing an imposing Neo-Gothic architectural design and white coloration, the basilica attracts visitors of faith and casual tourists with its historical importance, atmosphere of reverence, and striking appearance. Stop by the attached museum to learn more about the story of St. Thomas and Christianity in India. Use our Chennai road trip planner to visit San Thome Church on your trip to Chennai, and learn what else travelers and our writers recommend seeing nearby.
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San Thome Church reviews

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TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
1,250 reviews
Google
4.7
TripAdvisor
  • Coming from Europe where there are so many beautiful churches and cathedrals, this one seems a bit ordinary. However, in a city that does not really have too many stellar tourist attractions, this.....  more
    Coming from Europe where there are so many beautiful churches and cathedrals, this one seems a bit ordinary. However, in a city that does not really have too many stellar tourist attractions, this.....  more »
  • Come to see the Church, where you will see Jesus on the cross robed in a distinctly Indian way. Also there is a relic of St. Thomas the Apostle, and Our Lady of Mylapore. St. Francis Xavier once... 
    Come to see the Church, where you will see Jesus on the cross robed in a distinctly Indian way. Also there is a relic of St. Thomas the Apostle, and Our Lady of Mylapore. St. Francis Xavier once...  more »
Google
  • Only 3 churches built on tomb of an apostle, structure wise elegant. Although built in grandeur by the Portuguese, we can see the British influence in the current building. Was amazed at the 200 year old pipe organ, classy. Sadly not much effort to protect it, it’s kept open and dusty. There are improvement opportunities, many foreigners visit given their ancestral connection.
  • Beautiful church to watch. Large parking space is available. It is free also. You may spend around one to two hours here. The tomb of St. Thomas is located here. Photography is prohibited here. One cool bar is located inside the church compound. Snacks are also available here. Good drinking water is also available here. St. Thomas Pole is also situated just backside of the church. If you like this review, please like and comment. Thank you.

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