St. Francis CSI Church, nestled in Fort Kochi—sometimes called Fort Cochin—was established in 1503. It stands as the oldest European church in India, bearing important historical significance due to its silent observance of the European colonial struggles in the region. Initially constructed from timber, the building was later reconstructed using stone masonry. A restoration in 1779 was undertaken by the Protestant Dutch; it was subsequently converted into an Anglican church by the British in 1795 and today falls under the jurisdiction of the Church of South India.

He was initially buried within this church. However, his remains were transported to Lisbon after fourteen years; his tombstone still remains at the site.

In April 1923, the church was officially designated as a protected monument under the Protected Monuments Act of 1904. It's managed by the Archaeological Survey of India while being owned by the North Kerala diocese of the Church of South India. The church hosts services on Sundays & commemorative days but remains closed to visitors during service times (8:00am to 11:30am on Sundays). On weekdays, it opens for visitors from 9:00am to 5:00pm. While still photography is permitted inside, video cameras are not.

This storied edifice not only serves as a place of worship but also as a custodian of history, remaining a pivotal part of India's rich cultural tapestry.

Visiting Information:

Timing: Monday - Saturday: 7 AM to 6:30 PM & Sunday: 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
The use of video cameras is restricted inside the church, but still photography is allowed.
Best Time to Visit: November – February

Why Special?

St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi holds the distinction of being the first European church established in India.

St. Francis Church is also notable for being the original burial site of the renowned explorer Vasco da Gama.

Way to Reach :

 By Air - Cochin International Airport is the nearest airport to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, situated at a distance of 39.6 Km.

 By Rail - Ernakulam Junction Railway Station is the nearest railway station to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, situated at a distance of 12.4 Km.

 By Bus - St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi is conveniently accessible by road. Visitors can reach the church by using private vehicles, boarding a bus, or hiring an auto-rickshaw. Ernakulam Bus Station is the nearest bus station to St. Francis Church in Fort Kochi, situated at a distance of 14 Km.

FAQs:

What is the historical significance of St. Francis CSI Church?

St. Francis CSI Church is the oldest European church in India, dating back to 1503, and witnessed significant colonial history.

Who was buried at St. Francis CSI Church?

The remains of Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama were initially buried at St. Francis CSI Church in 1524.

When is St. Francis CSI Church open to visitors?

The church is open to visitors from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on weekdays. It remains closed during service times on Sundays (8:00 am to 11:30 am).

Who manages St. Francis CSI Church?

St. Francis CSI Church is managed by the Archaeological Survey of India and owned by the North Kerala diocese of the Church of South India.

What are the photography rules inside St. Francis CSI Church?

Still photography is permitted inside St. Francis CSI Church, but video cameras are not allowed.