There are several monuments from palaces and forts to temples and churches in India that remind us of the colonial times that prevailed in the country. Kerala also has its share of such structures from the past. St. Francis Church in Kochi is one of them.
Built by the Europeans in 1503, the church is popular for several reasons. One of them is that this is the place where the legendary explorer took his last breath, and it was here that his body was buried, till it was later taken to Lisbon.
Photo Courtesy: Ranjith Siji
Architecture of St. Francis Church
The church features the European style of architecture. The magnificent structure of the church has a timber framed room decked with tiles. The two pinnacles on either side of the church gives it a traditional look. The beautiful wooden carvings inside the church and the numerous Portuguese and Dutch inscriptions found inside makes the church one of the most visited churches in Kerala.
Other Details About the Church
It is interesting to know that the church preserves an old Dutch baptism and marriage register. It is believed that many Dutch citizens visit the church to trace their family roots from the register. Similarly, a British register is also maintained in the church which is referred to, when required.
Photo Courtesy: Brian Snelson
There are several inscriptions on leaves found inside the church, which talk about a glorious past of the Dutch and the Portuguese. The church is today a protected monument for its historic and architectural significance.
How to reach St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church is located near Kochi city, and thus easy to access. Kochi is well connected to all the nearby cities by road and to the other cities in India by rail and air. Here's how to reach the city.
Photo Courtesy: P.K.Niyogi
Other Tourist Attractions of Kochi
Kochi has a number of other attractions that can be explored on a trip to the city. Some of them include the Bolgatty Palace, Mattancherry Palace, Fort Kochi and Wellington Island. Kochi is also a hub for shopping, with several shopping streets that sell goods from fashion jewellery to clothes and other accessories. Take a trip to this place that was once a major trade centre of India.