During the Christmas season, Bangalore in Karnataka comes alive with festive cheer. From long lines at iconic bakeries to streets adorned with twinkling fairy lights, the Yuletide spirit is truly magical. If you're visiting Bangalore during Christmas, here is a guide to the top 5 most beautiful churches in the city.
St. Mary's Basilica is a beautiful Gothic church located in Bangalore. It was designed by a French architect and built as a cross, measuring 172 feet long and 50 feet wide. The original chapel was constructed by French architect Jean-Antoine Dubois in 1818 and later transformed into a magnificent Gothic-style church in 1874. The church's stunning interiors feature a vaulted ceiling supported by Corinthian pillars, splendid arches, and exquisite stained-glass windows that will leave you in awe. St. Mary, also known as Our Lady of Health, is believed to possess miraculous powers and attracts thousands of devotees for the September feast. In 1974, the Pope elevated the church to a Basilica. Don't miss the annual feast on September 8th, the birthday of St. Mary.
Address: MF Norrona St, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560051
The 200-year-old church located in the heart of Bengaluru is among the top 5 most beautiful churches in Bangalore. It is dedicated to Saint Mark the Evangelist and is famous for its stunning Baroque architecture, which was influenced by St Paul's Cathedral in London. The colonial-style structure boasts a magnificent dome, semi-circular chancel, and Roman arches. The cathedral's entrance is adorned with intricate woodwork and ornate carvings.
Inside you will find several examples of stunning stained glass work. The well-preserved bell carries with it a rich history. One fascinating sight is the display of the military colours of the 77th Moplah Rifles infantry Regiment on the west wall, alongside memorial plaques honouring British officers who sacrificed their lives in the Bangalore Cantonment."
Address: 1, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Shivaji Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001
This Neo-Romanesque stone building, constructed with carved limestone walls, was inaugurated on 26 May 1932. 1940, Bangalore was established as a separate diocese, and St. Francis Xavier's Church was selected as the Cathedral. A part of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Bangalore, the church is distinguished by three large blue and white cross-topped domes illuminated at night, making them visible from a distance.
The impressive front of the church faces northwest and features a large rose window and a housed statue of the patron Saint Francis Xavier above the top portico. Inside, the church has a formal cruciform design with a central altar showcasing Jesus on the cross, six side altar shrines and several other unique shrines along the side walls. The interior also contains many beautiful side altars and shrines and stained glass windows around the central dome.
Address: St Johns Church Rd, Cleveland Town, Pulikeshi Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560005
Established in 1852 to provide for the welfare of British troops in Bengaluru, the Holy Trinity Church is a magnificent example of English Renaissance architecture. Its awe-inspiring façade is adorned with captivating murals, statues, and historically significant artefacts, including a bell cast at London's renowned Mears Foundry and a meticulously crafted pipe organ imported from the same city. The church's interior features exquisite stained glass windows and intricate woodwork, providing visitors with a true sense of this remarkable place's historical and artistic significance.
Address: Trinity Circle-8, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, Near Vijaya Bank, Jogupalya, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560007
St. Patrick's Church is a magnificent historical landmark nestled in the bustling heart of the town. Construction began in 1841 and was meticulously completed in 1844, making it a cherished gem and one of the oldest churches within the Archdiocese of Bangalore. Initially, the church was dedicated to the Virgin Mary and Archangel Michael. However, it earned its name from the nearby Irish troops. The church boasts a stunning Gothic architectural design, characterised by two imposing steeples at the entrance, elegant fluted pilasters, and lavishly adorned interiors featuring intricate stained glass windows, ornate motifs, and graceful arches.
Address: 15K, Brigade Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Ashok Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560025