Puthan Pally in Trichur - Biggest Basilica in India

It was in 1796 AD, the King of erstwhile Cochin State, Shri Sakthan Thampuran invited 52 Christian families to Trichur with an eye on the development of Trichur in Trade. In 1814, the Marth Mariam Church was constructed for these 52 familis. Later Arnos Pathri, the German missionary, Scholar stayed in Trichur and his contribution for the construction of Catholic historical places is not little. The basilica of Our Lady of Dolours is the most impressive Church in the Town. This is built in the classic Gothic style. The adoration time here is from 8.15 am to 8.30 Pm everyday. The belfries (tower for hanging Bells) at the entrance is itself an attraction. Moreover, passageways of the central hall for congregation remain special here.

This basilica is wide spread over an area of 25000 Sq Ft. It has eleven altars - five on either side of the main. This basilica has three towers - two in the front of 146 Ft height each completed in 1995 and one in the back portion finished in 2004. The third tower is the highest in Asia. The largest church in India has its excellent interior decorations speaks for fine specimen of murals, images of saints etc. Scenes from scriptures are also imaged here widely. It is told that in 1929, the famous architect Jnanaprakasam from Madras commenced the construction with the approval from Cochin Maharaja, His Excellency Raja Varma and in 1940 it was consecrated with the blessings of Rt Rev Dr Francis Vazhapally. In 1992, the status of Minor Basilica was bestowed to this Church by the Pope John Paul II. After this Church was called as the Basilica of our Old Lady of Dolours.

With the elevation, the Basilica became a centre of attraction for all liturgical services and administration of all religious rites and ceremonies. This Puthenpally is one of the main tourist attractions. Communities live in such amity and goodwill in Trichur and they all participate in temple and church festivals. Thousands of devotees visit this Church on all sundays. The annual festival is in February.

Reference: http://www.tripfilms.com/Travel_Video-v73726-Kerala-The_tallest_Gothic_church_in_Asia_Puthan_palli_Thrissur_church_Christianity_flv-Video.html