Santa Cruz Basilica
March 26, 2010 by admin
Filed under Santa Cruz Basilica
Santa Cruz Basilica – Cochin
Fort Kochi indicates you with this monumental structure. In a visit to Fort Kochi there’s no way you can miss the Santa Cruz Basilica. This imposing structure was built by the Portuguese in 1506. It was blessed as a cathedral by Pope Paul IV in 1558. The cathedral was demolished in 1975 when the British took over Fort Kochi. However, a new building was constructed at the same site in 1887 by Bishop Dome Gomes Ferreira, which was declared as a Basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1984.
As you enter, you will be fascinated by a plethora of colours and ornate motifs. There are coloured doors and windows, timber and tiled roof, but it is in disheveled condition. The interior walls are pastel montages filled with statues of Jesus Christ and Mother Mary, nativity scenes, railings carved from marble, mosaic tiles and abstract art. The wooden ceilings serve as a pathway for several huge murals, which have been repainted. One really does get a sense of the age of the building. The bright blue pillars at the entrance may hide this aspect from the visitor; but they invite you inside for a visual treat.