Venue details
Best time to visit
Early morning or late afternoon; December for Christmas services
How to get there
Santhome High Road, Mylapore, a short walk from Marina Beach and Kapaleeshwarar Temple
Highlights
Tomb of St Thomas the Apostle, neo-Gothic white spire, stained glass, small museum
Good for
Pilgrims, history and architecture lovers, families
Price range
Free entry; small charge for the museum
San Thome Basilica is one of the most significant churches in India, and one of only three basilicas in the world built over the tomb of an apostle. Set in the Santhome neighbourhood of Mylapore, its tall white neo-Gothic spire is a landmark along the Chennai coast, a short walk from both Marina Beach and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple.
History
The basilica is built over the tomb of St Thomas the Apostle, who is believed to have come to South India in the first century and to have been martyred near Chennai. A church was first raised on the site by Portuguese explorers in the sixteenth century, and the present neo-Gothic structure was rebuilt by the British in 1893. In 1956 it was raised to the status of a basilica, and it remains an active place of worship as well as a pilgrimage site for Christians from across the world.
What to see
The highlight is the underground tomb chapel, where a small shrine marks the burial place of St Thomas. The main church above is worth a slow look for its stained glass windows, high vaulted ceiling and the statue of Our Lady of Mylapore. There is also a small museum on site displaying relics, old maps and artefacts connected to the apostle and the history of Christianity in the region, including a fragment said to be from the original tomb.
Timings and tips
The basilica is generally open through the day, with regular mass services, and entry to the church is free. Dress modestly, as it is an active place of worship, and keep noise to a minimum inside. The museum usually charges a small fee. It is easy to combine a visit here with Marina Beach and the Kapaleeshwarar Temple, since all three sit within a short distance of each other in the historic Mylapore area.
How to reach it
San Thome Basilica is on Santhome High Road in Mylapore, close to the southern end of Marina Beach. It is a straightforward auto or cab ride from most parts of central Chennai, and the surrounding Mylapore streets are pleasant to explore on foot once you are there.