About Mount Mary Church, Mumbai Mount Mary Church, located in Bandra, Mumbai, is one of the most popular Roman Catholic churches in India. It is dedicated to Mother Mary and is also known as the 'Basilica of Our Lady of the Mount'. The church is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful ambiance, and panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. Visiting Hours The church is open to visitors every day from 6:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. History Mount Mary Church was originally built in 1640 by the Portuguese Jesuits and later rebuilt in 1761. It has since undergone several renovations and expansions, with the current structure dating back to the 1900s. Church Services and Events The church holds regular Mass services throughout the week, with special services on Sundays and religious holidays. It also hosts annual events such as the Feast of Mount Mary in September, which draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists. Architectural Facts The church's Gothic Revival style architecture features tall spires, intricate stained glass windows, and ornate decorations. The interior is adorned with religious paintings, statues, and a stunning altar. Accessibility and Directions Mount Mary Church is easily accessible by car or public transport. The nearest train station is Bandra, and there are also buses and taxis available. Parking is limited, so it is advisable to use public transport. The church is wheelchair accessible. Visitor's Information There is no entry fee to visit the church, but donations are welcomed. Guides are available on site to provide information about the history and significance of the church. Nearby attractions include Bandstand Promenade, Bandra Fort, and shopping markets. Visitors are advised to dress modestly when visiting the church.
Explore MoreAbout Afghan Church, Mumbai The Afghan Church, located in Mumbai, India, is a historical and iconic church that serves as a place of worship for the Afghan Christian community in the city. The church is known for its beautiful architecture and rich history, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Visiting Hours The Afghan Church is open to visitors on weekdays from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is also open on weekends, but the hours may vary, so it is recommended to check ahead of time. History The Afghan Church was built in the 19th century to commemorate the British and Indian soldiers who lost their lives in the First Afghan War. The church was consecrated in 1858 and has since become a symbol of peace and remembrance. Church Services and Events The Afghan Church holds regular services for the Afghan Christian community, as well as special events and festivals throughout the year. The timings for these services and events may vary, so visitors are advised to check ahead of time. Architectural Facts The Afghan Church is known for its Gothic Revival architecture, with its towering spires and intricate carvings. The church is also home to beautiful stained glass windows and a majestic altar, making it a sight to behold for visitors. Accessibility and Directions The Afghan Church is easily accessible by car or public transport. There is parking available near the church for visitors who are driving. The church is also wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for all visitors. Visitor's Information There is no entry fee to visit the Afghan Church, and guides are available for those who wish to learn more about the church's history and significance. Nearby attractions to visit around the church include the Gateway of India and Colaba Causeway. There is no specific dress code for visitors, but it is recommended to dress modestly out of respect for the church.
Explore MoreWhile visiting Mumbai, you should visit all the tourist spots in the city. St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai is one place that you should not avoid visiting. The church is one of the oldest and first Anglican type of churches in the city. The structure and history of the church make it even more attractive. It is located at the Horniman Circle and is very close to the Bombay House and Flora Fountain. The cathedral is a landmark in South Mumbai and is around 300 years old, which makes it the oldest church in the country. Since the Churchgate railway station was linked to the church by road, it was named after the church. The road led to one of the gates to the city which was demolished in 1862 to expand the city and was replaced by a fountain. History of St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai The cathedral was established in 1718 by the Anglican Church and was named after Saint Thomas the Apostle. In 1668, Sir John Oxinden thought of building a church for his men so that they had a place of workshop. In 1669, Gerald Aungier wanted to invite people to embrace religion. He also raised donations from the people working with East India Company which was used to build the church. The foundation stone of the church was laid in 1676 and finally, after a lot of interruptions, the church was built completely in 1718. It was inaugurated by Charles Boone, the then governor of the city.The first service in the church was held at Christmas. However, it wasn’t until the year 1837 that the church was sanctified as a cathedral and making Thomas Carr the first Bishop of Bombay. The clock and the tower were built in 1838. The Structure of the Church The St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai has been styled in the Neo-Gothic style to resemble the St. Thomas Cathedral in Ireland. When you enter the church, you will find a fountain and a memorial of the first Bishop of Bombay. The church is made from glasswork, brass, and plaster of Paris and has an arched shaped dome. The windows of the church are stained glass that shows St. Thomas’s contribution to religion. You will find St. Thomas between St. Gabriel, who is holding a lily a symbol of purity, and St. Michael, who is holding a double-edged sword that is a symbol for truth and justice. The Memorials in St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai The church has many memorials carved in stones from the Company rule in the country to the British Raj. These memorials include the effigy of Thomas Carr who was the first Bishop of Bombay. This effigy was carved by the British sculptor Matthew Noble. You will also find a memorial of Sir Frederick Lewis Maitland who was the Rear Admiral and Captain George Nicholas Hardinge. The Point Zero of Bombay During the colonial times, St. Thomas Cathedral, Mumbai was marked as the point zero of Bombay which is the centre of the city. 16 milestones were laid from the church of the city and lead way up to the north of the city. The stones were only 4 feet, but they got submerged into the ground as the roads kept being made over them all these years. Visiting Hours of the Church The church is open everyday from 7 am – 6 pm. Sunday mass is held along with Sunday school from 8.45 am onwards. Things to Do Near the Church Being close to the Horniman Circle, MG Road, and Lokhandwala, you can visit these places to enjoy some shopping. You can also grab some local delicacies of the city in these places. If you want to get the real taste of the local cuisines, then you should try some from local vendors on the streets. You can enjoy the Flora Fountain near the church that was once a road that led to the city gate. Other places that you can visit near the church are the University of Mumbai, Nariman Point, Asiatic Society of Mumbai, etc. Reaching the Oldest Church in India The church is very famous and known to everyone in the city. This also makes it easily accessible through local transports. Auto-rickshaws, buses, and taxis ply on the road to the church. There are also many local trains that stop at MG Road from where the church is around a 5-minute walk. If you do not feel like walking, then you can take a taxi or an auto from the station.
Explore MoreAbout St. John's Catholic Church, Ahmednagar St. John's Catholic Church in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, is a historic church known for its serene ambiance and elegant architecture. Serving the local Catholic community, it stands as a symbol of faith and heritage. The church attracts visitors with its peaceful surroundings and spiritual significance in the region. Location and Visiting Hours St. John's Catholic Church is located in Ahmednagar, a city in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The church is open to visitors daily from 9am to 5pm. Visitors are welcome to attend the church services, events, and festivals held throughout the year. History St. John's Catholic Church has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century when it was established by missionaries. Over the years, the church has become a significant landmark in Ahmednagar, serving the local Catholic community and welcoming visitors from all walks of life. Church Services and Events The church holds regular services on Sundays as well as special events and festivals throughout the year. Sunday services are held at 8am and 10am, with additional services on holy days and special occasions. Visitors are encouraged to check the church's schedule for upcoming events and timings. Weddings at St. John's Catholic Church St. John's Catholic Church is available for weddings, offering a beautiful and sacred setting for couples to exchange their vows. The church can accommodate a large number of guests and provides a picturesque backdrop for wedding ceremonies. Architectural Facts St. John's Catholic Church boasts impressive architecture, featuring a Gothic style facade, stained glass windows, and ornate interior decorations. The church's altar is adorned with intricate carvings and religious icons, creating a serene and reverent atmosphere for worshipers. Accessibility and Directions St. John's Catholic Church is easily accessible by car or public transport. The church provides ample parking for visitors arriving by car, and is also conveniently located near bus stops and train stations. The church is wheelchair accessible, ensuring that all visitors can participate in services and events. Visitor's Information Visitors to St. John's Catholic Church are welcome to enter free of charge. Guides are available to provide tours and information about the church's history and significance. Nearby attractions include historic sites, parks, and shopping areas, making St. John's Catholic Church a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. There is no specific dress code for visitors, but modest attire is recommended out of respect for the church's sacred space.
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