About Infant Jesus Cathedral
Prime Day & Hours: Sunday, 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours approximately
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Kollam Railway Station, 5 km away
Nearest Airport: Thiruvananthapuram International Airport, 69 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: KSRTC Bus Station Kollam, 3 km away
The Infant Jesus Cathedral in Tangasseri, Kollam, is one of the most historically significant churches in Kerala. Built by the Portuguese in 1614, it is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Quilon, the first and oldest diocese in India. With centuries of religious and colonial history, the cathedral remains an important spiritual and cultural landmark of the region.
It is an active worship center where regular Holy Masses are held, attracting large numbers of visitors. These services are open to all and offer an insight into the deep-rooted Catholic traditions and communal devotion that have thrived here for generations. It is one of the notable places to visit in Kollam.
The architecture of the cathedral is a harmonious blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British styles and reflects the colonial heritage of Tangasseri. The high ceilings, arched windows, and wooden details evoke a sense of solemn grandeur. The stained glass windows which depict biblical scenes with artistic sophistication, provide vibrant colour and light. A rare and striking feature is the depiction of Christ in a meditative lotus posture, symbolising the fusion of Western faith with Indian culture.
Infant Jesus Cathedral Highlights
• Explore the beautiful architecture of the Infant Jesus Cathedral which is an interesting blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British styles.
• Immerse yourself in the holy ritual of masses held at the church and offer your prayers in a sacred atmosphere.
How To Reach Infant Jesus Cathedral
By road- The Infant Jesus Cathedral is located 7 km from the Kollam city center and can be reached in 19 minutes approximately via Bharanikavu - Kollam Road.
Best Time To Visit Infant Jesus Cathedral
Peak Season (December to February):
- Weather insights- Pleasant weather with temperatures between 22°C and 32°C.
- Things to do- Visit the church, attend the masses, offer your prayers.
Moderate Season (March to May):
- Weather insights- Hot and Humid, temperatures between 25°C and 35°C
- Things to do- Explore the church, join masses, offer your prayers
Low Season (June to November):
- Weather insights- Moderate rainfall, potentially humid, temperatures between 23°C and 30°C
- Things to do- Discover the church, engage in masses, offer your prayers.
Infant Jesus Cathedral Other Essential Information
Know before you go to Infant Jesus Cathedral:
- Avoid making loud noises inside the premises as it is a sacred place.
- Avoid littering and ensure waste is disposed of in designated bins.
- Avoid using flash when taking photographs inside the church.
- Recommended to dress modestly as it is a place of worship.
Visit the church
The Infant Jesus Cathedral occupies an important place in the Christian heritage of Kerala. Its origins date back to 1614, when it was built by the Portuguese. Over the centuries, it has remained a central spiritual center and is today the seat of the Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Quilon, the first Catholic diocese in India. The cathedral continues to be an active place of worship, attracting both locals and visitors to the regular Holy Masses. Attending a mass offers an insight into the deep-rooted faith and traditions of the community.
Discover the architecture
The architecture of the Infant Jesus Cathedral in Tangasseri is a mixture of Portuguese, Dutch and British styles reflecting the city's colonial roots. The stained glass windows, high ceilings and arched doorways create a calm and reverent atmosphere. A unique feature is the depiction of Christ in a meditative lotus position, which symbolizes the fusion of local culture with the Christian faith. It is also home to the significant glass painting of the patroness of the Diocese of Quilon. The cathedral consists of a modern parish house to accommodate the guests and also has a chapel to host all the masses and rituals.The bell tower has been renovated many times and has shrines dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Sebastian and Saint Francis Xavier.
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Infant Jesus Cathedral FAQs
What is the historical significance of Infant Jesus Cathedral?
The Infant Jesus Cathedral is a testament to Kollam's colonial past and was built in 1614. It serves as the seat of the bishop of the Roman Catholic diocese of Quilon, the first Catholic diocese in India. The cathedral has witnessed significant events, including the installation of Msgr. Aloysius Maria Benziger as bishop in 1905.
What are the architectural highlights of the cathedral?
The Cathedral is an interesting blend of Portuguese, Dutch and British styles. The interior has beautiful stained glass windows depicting the life of Jesus. It also has a unique depiction of Jesus in the lotus pose.
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