Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq
St. Mary’s Basilica is an iconic piece of architecture that is quite a popular tourist attraction in Bangalore.
It is also an important religious site and a major attraction for thousands of visitors annually.
The church is a beauty by all means, and its architectural significance and the festivals hosted yearly make it a must-visit destination for all travelers.
St. Mary’s Basilica is considered one of the oldest and most prominent churches in the history of Bangalore city.
The stunning architecture this Church boasts and the Gothic-style windows, along with those high arches, attract people and tourists from all over the globe.
History of St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore
The history of St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore lives beyond time and goes back to the 17th century.
(Source: Flickr)
The church at that time was a small Chapel that the Tamil Christians built in a particular area.
The chapel was then renovated and dedicated to Our Lady of the Presentation in the 19th century by a revolutionary French missionary named Abbe Dubois.
After some years, in the year 1882, the church was rebuilt and named St. Mary’s Basilica.
Over these years the church has undergone several renovations and majestic improvements.
It was finally renovated and restored to its former charm and glory in 2004, and the Church has been the same since there.
Major Religious Events and Festivals at St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore
St. Mary’s Basilica is one of Bangalore’s oldest and predominant churches, hosting many religious events and festivals annually.
One of the most significant festivals of the church is the feast of the Nativity of Mary, which is celebrated on September 8th every year.
One of the major rituals of the festival is when the statue of Mary is carried around the church ground, and a large procession takes place.
Another significant event is the Novena which happens to be before the feast day.
It is a nine-day prayer service that involves the recitation of the Rosary and other devotionals.
The Novena is a popular event that draws many worldwide devotees seeking the Virgin Mary’s blessings.
Mass Timings at St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore
St. Mary’s Basilica holds daily Masses for its devotees throughout the day.
The Mass timing for the church is as follows:
- Monday – Saturday: 6:00 am, 6:45 am, 12:00 pm, and 6:00 pm
- Sunday: 6:00 am, 7:00 am, 8:15 am, 9:30 am, 10:45 am, 12:00 pm, and 6:00 pm
Feast of St. Mary’s Basilica 2022
The Feast of St. Mary’s Basilica is a glorious event considered the charm of the church and is celebrated on September 8 every year.
Devotees from all over the world join the festival.
Many tourists are expected in the city for this religious festival, which includes a grand procession, special prayers, and other religious ceremonies.
Special Events at St. Mary’s Basilica
The church is popular for hosting several special events and religious gatherings yearly.
One of the most popular events is the Christmas Mass, held at midnight on Christmas Eve.
The church on Christmas Eve is decorated with lights and flowers, and the midnight Mass is attended by all the devotees who seek Mary’s blessing.
In addition to the other religious events, the church hosts an annual Carol Singing Competition, open to choirs from all over the city.
The competition is held weeks before Christmas Eve, leading many music lovers to the church.
St. Mary’s Basilica Website
To know more about St. Mary’s Basilica, check out the church’s official website.
The official website provides accurate information on mass timings, other special events and festivals, and cultural activities throughout the year.
Activities for Tourists
St. Mary’s Basilica offers various activities and rituals for tourists and devotees that visit the church annually.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the church offered by a knowledgeable scholar who would brief you about its history, architecture, and religious significance.
The church also has a gift shop on the inner premises, where visitors can buy souvenirs and other religious artifacts.
If you are a music lover, you can also attend the annual Carol singing competition, held weeks before leading to Christmas Eve.
Along with all the popular religious events, visitors can also see the City’s other attractions, like the nearby Cubbon Park and the Bangalore Palace.
Address
The St. Mary’s Basilica is in Shivaji Nagar, Bangalore.
The complete address for the church is listed below:
St. Mary’s Basilica,
Msgr. F. Noronha Road,
Shivaji Nagar.
Bangalore – 560 05,
Karnataka, India
How to Reach St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore
You can easily visit the church by taking public transport like a bus or a metro.
The nearest metro station to the church is the Cubbon Park Metro Station, which is around 1.5 kilometers away from the church.
You can take a taxi or public transport like a bus to the church from the metro station.
Location of St. Mary’s Basilica
FAQs
u003cstrongu003eIs St. Mary’s Basilica free?u003c/strongu003e
Yes, St. Mary’s Basilica is free to enter for its devotees and visitors; however, donations are welcome.
u003cstrongu003eWhich metro station is near St. Mary’s Basilica Bangalore?u003c/strongu003e
If you plan to reach the church, the nearest metro station would be the Cubbon Park Metro Station, from where you can take a taxi.
u003cstrongu003eWhat is St. Mary’s Basilica known for?u003c/strongu003e
St. Mary’s Basilica is popularly known for its stunning Gothic-style architecture, magnificent cultural significance, and the religious events and festivals it hosts throughout the year.
u003cstrongu003eWhy is St. Mary’s feast celebrated?u003c/strongu003e
The Feast of the Nativity of Mary is celebrated on September 8th of every year to honor the birth of the Virgin Mary.
u003cstrongu003eWhy is St. Mary so important?u003c/strongu003e
Mary is considered one of the most significant figures in the religion of Christianity. She is known for her unwavering faith and purity as the mother of Jesus Christ. She was known to be the mediator between God and Humanity. She is revered not just in the Christian religion but also in other religions like Islam.
(Feature image source: Holidify)
