San Thome Cathedral Basilica

This minor Basilica in Chennai’s Santhome neighbourhood is one of the most important Christian religious sites, not only in the city but in the world. Constructed in the 16th century by Portuguese explorers, the cathedral is best-known for being constructed over the tomb of St. Thomas, one of the 12 apostles of Jesus. The Basilica has been renovated multiple times over the last few centuries, with the last major effort being undertaken in 1896 by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madras and Mylapore. The exquisite structure is an important reminder of Chennai’s historic links to Christianity and continues to house one of the largest congregations in South India.