SAN THOME BASILICA

The basilica is dedicated to St. Thomas, the apostle of Christ who came to Chennai in 52 and was martyred in 78 at a place now called St. Thomas Mount. Built in the 16th century by the Portuguese, it is said to house the relics of the saint in its crypt. Its soaring spires sum up the history of the Christian faith in Chennai. The central hall, with its stained glass windows, features 14 wooden panels depicting scenes from the last days of Christ. The cathedral also has a statue of the Virgin Mary, about 90 cm high, brought from Portugal in 1543.