Church of Saint Francis, Kochi

The Church of Saint Francis in Kochi stands as a testament to the rich colonial history of India. Established by Portuguese Franciscan friars in 1503, this church is revered as one of the oldest European churches in India. It is a distinguished landmark in the city of Kochi, reflecting the architectural prowess of the Portuguese colonial period.

Constructed during the tenure of the Portuguese viceroy Dom Francisco de Almeida, the Church of Saint Francis was originally dedicated to Santo Antonio, the patron saint of Portugal. This church has witnessed numerous historical events and has undergone several transformations. After the Dutch captured Kochi in 1663, they converted it into a Protestant church and it remained under their care until the British took over the region. The Anglican Church then managed the church until 1947 when India gained independence.

The architecture of the Church of Saint Francis is simplistic and unassuming, yet it holds an air of historical significance and serenity. The building's facade is whitewashed, and the interiors are modest with a high wooden ceiling and large windows that allow the gentle filtering of light. The church still houses the original wooden pulpit and confessional boxes, which echo the antiquity of the place.

One of the church's most notable features is the originally buried site of the legendary explorer Vasco da Gama, who died in Kochi in 1524. His remains were later exhumed and taken to Lisbon, but the gravestone still attracts numerous visitors who come to pay their respects to the great navigator.

The Church of Saint Francis is more than a place of worship; it is a historical treasure that encapsulates the cultural and colonial interchange that has shaped Kochi. It is open to visitors of all faiths and offers a tranquil retreat from the bustling city life.