About Mother Of God Cathedral
Opening Hours: 6:00 am- 6:30 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Sunday; morning mass
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Kozhikode Railway Station, about 4 km
Nearest Airport: Calicut International Airport, about 27 km
Nearest Bus Stop: Kozhikode Town, about 2 km
The Mother of God Roman Catholic Cathedral, also known as Matri Dei Cathedral, stands as a testament to the rich and diverse catholic culture present in Calicut. It dates back to 1513 AD, when the Portuguese signed a treaty with the Zamorians. The Portuguese built a factory and a church with the permission of the Zamorians. It brought in a new era for the Catholic congregation of the Calicut Diocese, making it one of the best places to visit in Kerala.
The gothic structure, crafted by Italian architects, showcases intricate curved arches, colonnades, and neo-Roman influences. The aesthetic prowess is something worth marvelling over. Art lovers will appreciate the complex details on the three beautiful wooden doos at the entrance.
The historic and cultural significance of the place cannot be understated, making it a must-visit place in Kozhikode.
Mother Of God Cathedral Highlights
• Visit the historic Mother of God Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the area and the headquarters of the roman catholic congregation in Malabar.
• Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the building, masterfully designed by Italian architects specifically brought to Kozhikode for this purpose.
• Appreciate the famous 200-year-old Mother Mary portrait, a treasured centrepiece of Kozhikode’s historic Mother of God Cathedral.
How To Reach Mother Of God Cathedral
- By car/taxi: Mother of God Cathedral is about 1 km away from the Kozhikode city centre via Red Cross Rd. It will take you around 5 minutes to get there.
- By foot: You can also enjoy a brisk walk of about 20 minutes to the Mother of God Cathedral.
Best Time To Visit Mother Of God Cathedral
Peak Season (October to March):
- Weather Insights: Pleasant weather, moderate temperature.
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, enjoy nature, enjoy the nearby beach.
Moderate Season (June to October):
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season, heavy showers.
- Things to do: Attend mass, appreciate the architecture.
Low Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Rising temperature, high humidity.
- Things to do: Learn about the history, admire the Gothic architecture.
Mother Of God Cathedral Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear modest clothes and maintain decorum during your visit to the church, and respect the sacred atmosphere.
- Carry your water bottle and stay hydrated, especially if you plan to explore the area or attend a long Mass.
- Ask the authorities for permission before taking pictures or making videos inside the church.
- Expect large crowds on religious and social holidays, stay patient and exercise social etiquette.
- Confirm the Mass schedule in advance, as timings may vary depending on the day or special church events.
- Use the local name of the church, “Valiyapalli”, while navigating through public transport, as some locals may not recognise the English name.
Attend the Sunday Mass
The Sunday Mass is conducted in English, making it accessible to non-Malayalam speakers as well. Indulge yourself in the divine word of the lord and enjoy a peasant walk on the beach.
Admire the 200-Year-Old Portrait of St. Mary
The church was built in dedication to the Virgin Mary of Immaculate Conception. Walking inside the church, you will be greeted with the 200-year-old portrait of the Virgin Mary, a revered treasure of the local community.
Witness the Architecture
The church was originally built in 1513 AD, showcasing rare Roman architecture. It was later reconstructed in the 18th century in the Gothic style by Italian architects, leading to their infusion along with traditional Kerala elements. It is an absolute treat for the eyes.
Tourism Board Alliances
Mother Of God Cathedral FAQs
What is the history of Matri Dei Cathedral?
The Matri Dei Cathedral, Kozhikode, Kerala, has a history that dates back to 1513. The Portuguese built a factory and a church dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Immaculate Conception, after signing a treaty with the Zamorians. It has served as a central hub for the Roman Catholic community in Malabar and reflects centuries of colonial, cultural, and spiritual history.
What is different about the Mother of God Cathedral, Calicut?
The Mother of God Cathedral is different because it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Immaculate Conception. The Gothic Italian architecture, designed by Italian architects, also sets the cathedral apart. It also has a lot of historical significance, with the presence of a 200-year-old St. Mary portrait. It's the headquarters of the Roman Catholic congregation in Malabar and is one of the oldest churches in the region.
Can non-Christians visit the cathedral?
Yes, non-Christians can visit the cathedral, as it welcomes visitors of all faiths. Non-Christians are encouraged to explore its architectural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. However, visitors should respect the sanctity of the space by dressing modestly, staying quiet during services, and following any guidelines provided by church authorities.
.jpg)