San Thome Cathedral Basilica

The San Thome Cathedral Basilica, also known as St. Thomas Cathedral Basilica and National Shrine of Saint Thomas, is a Roman Catholic Minor Basilica located in Santhome, Chennai. This iconic basilica holds a significant place in history, being one of only three known churches in the world built over the tomb of an apostle of Jesus. The other two such churches are St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City and Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Spain.

The story of St. Thomas, the apostle of Jesus, in the region of Madras (now Chennai) is one of deep historical and religious significance. Roman Catholic tradition holds that St. Thomas arrived in this area soon after the crucifixion of Jesus and commenced his preaching in Mylapore. However, faced with resistance, he eventually moved to a hill south of the city, which later became known as St. Thomas Mount.

Legend has it that as St. Thomas journeyed daily to Mylapore, he left behind a trail of churches wherever he rested. The magnificent San Thome Cathedral Basilica stands today as a testament to this belief, as it was built over the tomb of Saint Thomas in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers.

The basilica holds relics associated with St. Thomas, including a small hand bone and a lance, the latter believed to be the instrument of his martyrdom. It is said that St. Thomas met a violent end in Madras and was buried where the San Thome Cathedral now stands. His relics were later transported to Mesopotamia in the 3rd century and then to Italy in the 13th century.

Despite the challenges faced during Golconda's occupation from 1662 to 1780, the original structure of the church, built in 1523, remained largely unchanged. The tomb of St. Thomas within the church became a pilgrimage center, attracting Thomas Christians from Kerala. Albert De Mandelslo, a traveler who visited Mylapore in 1638, mentioned the church without a steeple. The tomb was ceremoniously opened on April 29, 1729, allowing pilgrims to collect earth from the site.

The British rebuilt the church in 1896, giving it its current appearance with its imposing Neo-Gothic architecture. A significant renovation took place in 1952 CE, further enhancing the basilica's grandeur. 

The exterior of the basilica features two spires, the taller one reaching 47 meters at the western end over the entry. These spires have octagonal bases with tall, pointed faces supporting faceted conical tops. The interior boasts a large hall with a wooden false ceiling, adorned with vibrant colors on the walls and multicolored glass windows. A beautiful spiral staircase leads to the upper floor.

Inside the cathedral, visitors are greeted by the grandeur of the nave, illuminated by natural light filtering through arched stained glass windows. The main altar, adorned with stained glass depictions of St. Thomas and other apostles, is a highlight of the basilica. Two chapels, one above ground and another beneath, provide spaces for quiet reflection and prayer. A statue of the revered saint rests in a glass case and his tomb within the chapel, drawing pilgrims from near and far.

The basilica also houses a museum that offers a deeper insight into the life and legacy of St. Thomas. Among its treasures are the spearhead believed to have killed the apostle, a fingerprint attributed to St. Thomas, and remnants of his bones. Intricately painted wall murals narrate the story of St. Thomas, adding to the historical richness of the basilica.

Today, the San Thome Cathedral Basilica stands as a symbol of faith, history, and cultural heritage in Chennai. It continues to be a cherished pilgrimage site for believers, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and spiritual significance.

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