Mother Of God Cathedral, Kozhikode

About Mother Of God Cathedral

The church is also known locally as Valiyapalli and is the headquarters of the Roman Catholic Congregation in Malabar. The history of the church dates back to 1513 when the Portuguese signed a treaty with the Zamorin and also built a factory and a church, dedicated to the Virgin Mary of the Immaculate Conception. Apart from its religious significance, the church is a perfect example of Italian architecture and Indian craftsmanship.

Architecture of Mother Of God Cathedral

Mother of God Cathedral was built in Roman style of architecture. The curved arches on the doors and windows have Italian influence. The Neo-Roman architectural style is evident in the façade surrounded by tall square towers. The interior of the church is a stunning combination of white and gray and adjacent to the chapel is a stone cross in bas relief on granite with a Portuguese inscription and still exists today. It is worshipped. There are three beautifully carved wooden doors with intricate details at the entrance.

Interesting facts about Mother Of God Cathedral

1. The wall of the church has a 200 year old portrait of St. Mary which is a big attraction.
2. The tomb of Pedro de Kovilhani, the first Catholic missionary to visit Kozhikode, can be seen here.
3. The church was called Matrei Dei ('Matar Dei' is Latin for 'Mother of God') and marked a new era for the Catholic congregation of the Calicut Diocese.
4. The Gothic cathedral was designed by Italian architects and has Italian influence on the curved arches on the doors and windows.
5. The entrance has three beautifully carved wooden doors with intricate details.

How to reach Mother Of God Cathedral