Malayattoor Church

Malayattoor Church is a famous Catholic church and one of the important Christian pilgrimage centers in Kerala. Located in Malayattoor of Ernakulam district in Kerala, a number of tourist and pilgrims visit this church during the annual festival of ‘Malayatoor Perunnal’. The Church is located on the peak of Malayattoor hill, at a height of 609 m. The church is dedicated to St. Thomas, who was the apostle of Jesus Christ. He came to India to spread Christianity and the message of Jesus Christ. Abundance of natural and scenic beauty makes the church an ideal place for those who are in search of spiritual bliss and peace. Those who have an eye for the architectural beauty will be pleased to have a look at the intricately designed structure of the church, which displays a commendable mixture of Greco-Roman architecture. However, the face of the church is designed in traditional Greek style.

History
It is supposed that St. Thomas reached the ports of Kodungalloor in 52 AD, sailing in the vessel of an Arab merchant. However, none of the dates of the events are established apart from that of the arrival of St. Thomas at Kodungallur. As per popular belief, the natives of Malayattoor were hostile to the saint, when he reached here on his quest of exploring the state. Subsequently, he fled to the top most point of the Malayattoor hill, where he prayed for days and weeks in a single position. As a result, his footprints were etched on one of the stones. According to the popular belief, while praying he touched a rock and blood poured out of it. This and many more miracles are associated with the Malayattoor Church.

It is also believed that Saint Thomas used to make the Sign of Cross on this rock and used to kiss that cross and prayed under it, at Kurisumudi. The story develops further and it is said that a golden cross appeared at the particular spot of rock at which St. Thomas used to offer his prayers. This is why during the annual festival, the pilgrims climb up the hill they incessantly say out loud "Ponnum Kurishu Muthappo, Ponmala Kayattom", which means "O Patriarch of the Golden Cross! Climb we shall, this golden hill!". In the year 1998 the shrine was promoted to the Archdiocesan status.

Attractions
There are a number of interesting places which you come across while the pilgrimage Marthoma Mandapam, which store the relics of St Thomas. Then there is the miraculous Golden Cross which actually seems like etched on the rock. Related to the same miracle are the footprints of St. Thomas on the Rock slab. While you continue your journey uphill, you will come across an ancient chapel, which was attacked by the elephants when it used to be surrounded by a thick jungle. Deep marks which were made by the tusks of the elephants are still visible on the walls of the Chapel. At the top of the hill there is a small spring, which is supposedly formed when St Thomas struck on a rock.

How to Reach

By Road
One can easily find a bus to reach Malayattoor Church, as buses ply to and from this destination from a number of adjoining cities. Hiring a taxi or a car is also a good idea.

By Air
Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport located 15kms away from the church. From here you can easily take a flight to any of the major destination in India and abroad.

By Rail
Angamaly railway station is the nearest railway station, which is situated 17kms away from Malayattoor. From here, you can catch a train to a number of major cities in and around Kerala.