Widely believed to have been established in 52 AD by St. Thomas the Apostle—one of the twelve apostles of Jesus Christ—this historic church is considered the oldest Christian church in India. It marks the beginning of the Christian faith in the Indian subcontinent and continues to be a vital pilgrimage site for both local and international devotees.
Palayoor was once a thriving Jewish settlement, and it was here that St.Thomas is said to have first preached the message of Christ. According to tradition, he performed baptisms in a nearby pond, remnants of which still exist today and form part of the pilgrimage experience. The original church, built by St. Thomas, has undergone numerous renovations over centuries, yet retains its spiritual significance and continues to inspire awe and reverence. The present structure features a harmonious blend of Persian, Roman, and Kerala architectural styles, bearing witness to the cultural and religious fusion of the region.
This shrine falls under the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, an Eastern Catholic Church in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church. It was elevated to the status of a Major Archiepiscopal Shrine in recognition of its religious and historical significance. The church complex includes a museum, a model of the original structure, and inscriptions that narrate the arrival and activities of St. Thomas.
Thousands of pilgrims visit the shrine, especially during the annual feast of St. Thomas, celebrated in July with great fervor. The shrine not only serves as a center of worship but also as a symbol of Kerala's rich Christian heritage and interfaith harmony.
Address: Chavakkad, Palayoor, Guruvayur, Kerala 680506
How To Reach St.Thomas Syro Malabar Church : St. Thomas Church Palayur is situated at a distance of 28 kilometres from the Thrissur district on the Thrissur-Chakavad route via Pavaratty. Since it is well-connected by roads, you can either hire a cab or take a bus to reach the church.
